10 health benefits of artichoke
The benefits of artichokes for health are diverse, as artichokes have a large amount of essential nutrients for the general health of the body. In addition, the artichoke is known in its natural form as cardão, and its scientific classification is Cynara cardunculus. Artichokes are native to the Mediterranean region, mainly because they play an important role in cooking. Artichoke can be found throughout Europe, Middle Eastern countries and America .
The edible part of the artichoke is the buds that form inside the flower head before it fully blooms. Timing is of the essence in growing them, as they are tough and almost inedible once the flower has fully bloomed. Also, one of the most sought after parts of the artichoke is the “heart”, which is the base from which the other buds sprout. Artichoke is often considered a delicacy, or at least the most delicious part of the plant, and it is often very expensive.
Main health benefits of artichoke :
- Promotes brain health;
- Improves digestion;
- Controls cholesterol ;
- Promotes liver health ;
- Prevents cancer;
- It has benefits for pregnant women.
Artichoke Nutritional Value:
- Calories 53 kcal
- Carbohydrates 11.95 g
- Proteins 2.89 g
- Total fat 0.34 g
- Saturated fats 0.08 g
- Dietary fiber 8.6 g
- Sodium 60 mg.
So, now check out the 10 Artichoke Health Benefits in detail :
Artichoke Benefits for Brain Health: There are a number of aspects of artichoke that make it beneficial for brain health. Artichoke ‘s quality as a vasodilator allows more oxygen to reach the brain for heightened cognitive function.
Artichoke Benefits Against Bad Digestion: German doctors have long recommended artichoke extract as a gentle remedy for indigestion and upset stomach. This may be due to a compound found in artichoke called cynarin, which has been shown to increase bile production, helping to speed up the movement of food and waste through the intestines and reduce feelings of bloating.
Benefits of Artichokes for Controlling Cholesterol: In a 2001 study, 143 patients suffering from high levels of total blood cholesterol were given 1800 mg of artichoke leaf extract daily for a period of six weeks. The result was surprising, about the powers of artichoke to regulate cholesterol .
Artichoke Benefits for Liver Health: A 2010 study showed significant reduced levels of lipids and cholesterol in the liver of rats fed a high-cholesterol diet when administered with artichoke extract .
Artichoke Prevents Cancer: Artichoke phytonutrients are rich in antioxidants that are proven cancer preventatives.
Artichoke Benefits for Pregnant Women: Artichoke provides about 107 mcg of Folic Acid per serving, more than a quarter of the recommended daily amount of 400 mcg. Women who are pregnant or trying to conceive should consume even more Artichoke Folic Acid ,as it is critical in preventing neural tube defects in developing embryos.
Benefits of Artichokes for Controlling Blood Pressure: Foods rich in potassium like artichokes help maintain a healthy balance of electrolytes within the body. Consuming plenty of potassium and magnesium from artichokes is essential to offset the potentially harmful effects of sodium consumption .
Artichoke Benefits for Bone Health: The Vitamin K content of artichoke helps to reduce vascular calcification. Another interesting benefit of Artichoke Vitamin K is the role it plays in bone formation and overall support of ongoing bone health.
Artichoke Benefits for Metabolism: Another interesting and highly beneficial nutrient found in artichoke is manganese . Manganese is used in the metabolism of cholesterol, amino acids and fatty acids, making it absolutely essential to allow the body to properly use the nutrients in the foods we eat.
Benefits of Artichokes to Cure Hangovers: As mentioned earlier, Artichokes are an excellent solution for the liver and can reduce any blockages as well as reduce the levels of toxins in the blood by eliminating them quickly. Therefore, artichoke is a perfect hangover cure. Some people choose to chew some artichoke leaves after a night of heavy drinking.