Health Benefits of Artichokes
By Madhusudhan Tammisetti
Artichokes have been consumed since the time of Ancient Greece and the Roman Empire. There are texts suggesting that these people ate the cardoon, a naturally occurring version of the artichoke, for rheumatism and gout relief.
Artichokes contain antioxidants, and the artichoke diet is rich in Vitamin C, A, K, and other nutrients.
Supplements containing artichoke extract have concentrated doses of certain antioxidant compounds such as cyanine, chlorogenic acid, luteolin, and cymaroside. They have also been found to reduce cholesterol and help in fighting disease.
Thanks to its high-fiber content and phytonutrients, artichoke nutrition has the ability to prevent serious conditions, including heart failure and cancer. It also has a positive impact on liver and digestive health. To top it all, artichokes have a wonderful flavor and can be included in a variety of recipes, including low-carb and keto options if you're monitoring your carb intake.
It May Prevent Cancer
Artichokes contain phytonutrients and antioxidants such as gallic acid, quercetin, cynarin, and rutin. Artichokes are an antioxidant-rich food with a strong ORAC (oxygen radical absorption capacity) score, which measures a plant's ability to consume and expel free radicals.
Antioxidants are just what the bodies need to fight free radicals and delay the emergence of diseases commonly seen in aging populations, so diets rich in antioxidants may help fend off different types of cancer. In tests, compounds found in artichokes, such as quercetin, rutin, and gallic acid, have been shown to delay cancerous cells' development and thereby discourage cancerous tumors from spreading.
Fights Cardiovascular Disease
Artichokes and artichoke extract consumption has been linked to lower levels of unhealthy cholesterol, metabolic syndrome, and high blood pressure. Artichoke nutrition can also help to minimize inflammation and improve blood flow in the body.
People with elevated cholesterol levels are more prone to experience heart failure and endure cardiac arrest or stroke. Fortunately, the strong agent cynarin present in the artichoke diet is one of the most important natural therapies for reducing cholesterol.
Artichokes' lipidic and glycemic-lowering properties have been found to aid in preventing metabolic disorders and coronary heart disease. Artichoke cholesterol-lowering properties are primarily due to their soluble fibers, especially the kind known as inulin.
Excellent Source of Fiber
Artichokes are rich in fiber, which is important for a number of bodily functions.
Fiber tends to maintain the digestive tract in proper functioning order. Fiber aids in the body's detoxification of waste, excess cholesterol, fat, and poisons, and facilitates liver activity, and makes one feel full after eating.
A high-fiber diet is linked to keeping a healthy weight and lowering the risk of severe cancer, cardiac failure, and diabetes. Artichoke nutrition swells and expands in the stomach and intestines and absorbs fluid, making you feel full.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Shreveport, La.