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Artichokes are delicious and versatile although there is some prep time required. Originating in the Mediterranean region these vegetables – that are actually thistles – have also been used for centuries for its medicinal properties.
The health benefits of eating globe artichokes are many, according to Healthline, and include aiding heart health, liver health and improved digestion. Using artichoke extract that contains high amounts of the beneficial plant compounds found in the thistle is becoming a popular health supplement.
Another type of artichoke are Jerusalem artichokes. These artichokes are related to sunflowers and do not have green skin or leaves, stressed Health. Instead, Jerusalem artichokes are tubers and look similar to ginger roots. But this article will only refer to the health benefits of globe artichokes.
Nutrient Rich
Artichokes are packed full of healthy nutrients and provides almost 20 percent of vitamin K and folate as well as 10 percent of vitamin C, potassium, magnesium, and manganese. These gems also supply your body with a significant amount of antioxidants which protect your body at its cellular level. Antioxidants can protect you against chronic illnesses like heart disease and even some cancers.
High Fiber Content
Just one medium artichoke contains nearly seven grams of fiber which is the equivalent of one-third of the DRV. Fiber plays an especially important role in digestive health by preventing constipation, nourishing good gut bacteria that could boost your immunity and decrease inflammation. Fiber also plays a role in helping to regulate blood sugar and insulin levels, making artichokes a good choice for diabetics.
Promotes Liver Health
In the US, the most common liver disease is non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). While healthy eating and physical activity can help with the prevention of NAFLD, it has been found that artichoke leaf extract could also play a role in prevention and reducing the severity of liver disease.
A 2018 clinical trial of 90 participants with NAFLD found that consuming 600 mg of artichoke supplement daily for two months led to an improvement in liver function. Check with a physician before using a supplement.
Helps Lower Cholesterol
Artichoke leaf extract could also have a positive effect on LDL bad cholesterol and other fatty lipid levels in your blood, according to Healthline. That’s because artichokes contain the antioxidant luteolin which works to prevent cholesterol formation and the extract helps your body process cholesterol more efficiently.
Could Regulate Blood Pressure
Eating artichokes or taking artichoke extract may also help people suffering from high blood pressure. Although it is not fully understood why, artichokes could play a role in widening blood vessels to help reduce blood pressure level. The high potassium levels in the vegetable also helps to regulate blood pressure.
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