The Artichoke is a Plant. It is the immature flower of a thistle plant and one of the oldest cultivated vegetables in the world. From the leaves to the fruit, artichokes are simply delicious. It is a nutrient powerhouse and a versatile food, having associated health benefits of protecting against various forms of cancer and heart diseases. They are mainly found throughout Europe, the Middle East, and the USA, but they are less frequently found and used in Asian nations. Lets see some of the amazing Health Benefits of Artichokes.
Nutrition Facts About Artichokes
They are low in fat and cholesterol while being a rich source of fibre, vitamins, and minerals. It contains vitamins which include vitamin C, thiamin, riboflavin, folate, vitamin B-6, A, E, D and vitamin K. Artichokes also provide minerals such as calcium, iron, zinc, sodium, potassium, manganese, phosphorus, and zinc.
Health Benefits of Artichokes
Prevents Cancer
Rutin, quercetin, and gallic acid, in particular, are able to induce apoptosis or cell death within the body, thereby it prevents the proliferation of cells which leads to many forms of cancer.
Antioxidant
Artichokes are an antioxidant-rich superfood.
Lowers Cholesterol - Health Benefits of Artichokes
They have chemicals that can reduce nausea and vomiting, spasms, and intestinal gas. These chemicals have also been shown to lower cholesterol.
Maintain Blood Pressure
Being rich in potassium, the essential mineral which coordinates with several organs in our body, they help to neutralize the effects of excess sodium, which has abilities to increase blood pressure.
Maintain Heart Health - Health Benefits of Artichokes
Certain ingredients in the leaves of artichokes have been found to reduce the levels of bad cholesterol (LDL) and increase the levels of good cholesterol (HDL, or omega-3 fatty acid).
Helps in Digestion
They contain cynarine which has abilities to increase the production of bile, helping to speed up the movement of food and waste through the intestines and reduce feelings of being bloated.
Bone Health
Being a rich source of vitamins and minerals including magnesium, phosphorous, and manganese, it increases bone health and density, thereby reducing the chances of conditions like osteoporosis.
Benefits to Brain - Health Benefits of Artichokes
Artichokes are rich in Vitamin k, protection against neuronal damage and degeneration, and protects from ageing and Alzheimer’s disease.
Birth Defects
It helps pregnant women have healthy, normally formed children. The high levels of folic acid found in artichokes can prevent neural tube defects in the newly born.
Metabolic Function
They are also rich in manganese which is used in the metabolism of cholesterol, amino acids, and fatty acids, making it absolutely essential in enabling the body to correctly utilize the nutrients in the foods we eat.
Uses of Artichoke
In foods, artichoke leaves and extracts are used to flavour beverages. Cynarin and chlorogenic acid, which are chemicals found in artichokes, are used as sweeteners.
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