Why you need artichoke in your life
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When a vegetable is good for your face and your health, it’s a eureka feat. Artichokes are becoming more and more sought after for multiple health reasons, but let us not forget it was the ancient Greeks and Romans that first discovered its glorious benefits eons ago. Artichokes come packed with nutrients, which aid in the battle against illness and also act as source of healthy living. Belonging to the Cynara family, the base of the artichoke (known as the “heart”) and the fleshlike portion of the leaves are the points of desired eating. The core of the artichoke (called the “choke”) is not edible. Artichokes are usually best eaten after being steamed or boiled for upwards of an hour (depending on the size of the artichoke) and there are a variety of recipes that you can work the nutrient-packed green into.
Here’s a breakdown some of the core benefits of artichokes and why they should be a mainstay in your diet.
Antioxidant rich
Artichokes are rich in antioxidants, which can help battle illnesses like cancer, as well as give a much-needed boost to your immune system and increase circulation throughout the body. In fact, artichokes contain more antioxidants than red wine, blueberries or dark chocolate. Foods high in antioxidants are known to combat free radicals that can damage cells and cause problems in the body.
And rich in potassium, too
Potassium replaces electrolytes in your system and are helpful in offsetting the levels of sodium intake, in turn lowering your blood pressure. Magnesium, which is also found in artichokes, can also help normalize blood pressure and regulate blood sugar levels.
High in fibre
Artichokes are high in fibre – and we all know how important it is to get fibre into your system. Artichokes have the highest amount of fibre among vegetables and most grains. One medium artichoke has approximately 10 grams of fibre, which is approximately 40 per cent of the recommended daily intake.
High in vitamin K
Artichokes are a source of vitamin K, which in addition to helping with blood clots and bone strength, reduces damage to neurons in the brain. Research continues to show links between vitamin K deficiency and Alzheimer’s disease. Artichokes act as a vasodilator, so its properties can open blood vessels and allow more oxygen into the brain, which then can improve one’s cognitive ability.
Low in calories
Artichokes are low in calories and fat, but high in fibre so you feel fuller. It depends on the size of the artichoke, but on average you’re looking at 65 calories or less per serving, for a medium-sized artichoke, which is pretty great. Plus, since you peel back layers of leaves the amount of time to eat it in entirety can lead to a better speed-to-eating ratio (a.k.a. it’s not just one bit and you’re done).
Aids in digestion
Artichokes improve digestion and the artichoke leaf extract has been noted to relieve indigestion pain, including acid reflux. The artichoke leaf extract can help increase the flow of bile in your system which helps you break down food and digest fats faster.
Strengthen bones
Artichokes can help with bone health because vitamin K is present in the vegetable, which helps to strengthen bones. Artichokes also produce collagen, which helps with connective tissue and bone density. Iron is also present in artichokes, which again increases bone strength.
Lower cholesterol
Artichokes can help reduce cholesterol levels. Being that artichokes are so rich in soluble fibre, they help lower cholesterol and balance blood sugar levels. The artichoke leaf extract has increasingly been linked to a natural means of lowering cholesterol and decreasing symptoms related to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
And they’re good for your skin, too
Artichokes also have skin benefits. The antioxidants found in artichokes can potentially aid in the prevention of wrinkles. Like many other anti-aging ingredients, the nutrients found in artichokes can help improve skin elasticity and hydrate skin. These nutrients can also strengthen and elevate your shine in your hair. Products like Green People’s Quinoa & Artichoke Shampoo have already tapped into this growing trend.
Keep in mind
There are concerns associated with artichoke leaves or extracts, particularly those with gallbladder disease, pregnant or nursing women, young children and people who suffer from kidney or liver disease. Make sure to consult a healthcare provider if you are concerned.
What’s your favourite way to eat artichokes? Let us know by tweeting @YahooStyleCA.
