Artichokes may improve several aspects of health, such as digestion and heart health, in addition to being rich in antioxidants, fiber, and other nutrients. The artichoke plant originated in the Mediterranean and has been used for hundreds of years for its potential medicinal properties.
Its supposed health benefits include liver health, heart health, improved digestion, and lower blood sugar levels.
Here are the top 5 health benefits of artichokes.
Health Benefits Of Artichokes
01. Improves Digestive Health
Since artichokes are an excellent source of fiber, they may help keep your digestive system healthy. How? By alleviating constipation and diarrhea, and promoting friendly gut bacteria. Artichokes also contain insulin, a type of fiber which acts as a prebiotic.
One study found that taking ginger and artichoke-based supplements before meals can improve the movement of food through the digestive tract. As such, it could help ease indigestion. However, since the supplement also contained ginger, it is not known for sure how much of these results can be attributed to artichoke alone.
But it’s still a good idea to speak with your doctor about this potential health benefit of artichokes because it’s very uncomfortable eating when you already feel full in the wrong places.
02. May Lower Blood Sugar
Artichokes may also help lower blood sugar levels. In fact, one small study found that certain compounds in artichoke could reduce blood sugar and improve cholesterol levels in rodents. This could be due to the antioxidants in this vegetable.
Additionally, a review of nine studies concluded that artichokes could significantly reduce fasting blood sugar levels in humans. But keep in mind that more research is still needed on the health benefits of artichokes for blood sugar control.
03. Improve Liver Health
Artichoke leaf extract may promote the growth of new tissue in your liver and protect it from damage. It also increases the production of bile, which helps remove harmful toxins. According to one study, artichoke decreased liver cell death and inflammation in mice. Studies in humans also show positive effects on liver health. But still more research is needed to confirm the role of artichoke extract in treating liver disease.
04. Possibly Improves Cholesterol Levels
First, artichokes contain luteolin, an antioxidant which prevents cholesterol formation. And second, artichoke leaf extract encourages your body to process cholesterol more efficiently, leading to lower overall levels
A large review in over 700 people found that supplementing with artichoke leaf extract daily for 5–13 weeks led to a reduction in total and LDL (bad) cholesterol.
05. Loaded with Nutrients
Artichokes are packed with powerful nutrients. Each cup of cooked artichoke contains high levels of protein, fiber, folate, copper, potassium, and other vitamins. Not only that, but this vegetable is low in fat, while rich in antioxidants, minerals, vitamins, and fiber.
Conclusion
Keep in mind that, although research is inconclusive and more studies are needed regarding the above health benefits of artichokes, the point is that this is a vegetable. And vegetables are are good for you.
At Jane’s Cafe, we have a wide selection of locally sourced and fresh vegetables. Whether you’re in the mood for a Caesar salad, delicious lunch wrap, or protein box, we have something for every taste.
You may also enjoy reading: 4 Health Benefits Of Beet Juice
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