The Advantages of Artichokes
By Brandi Goodman
Artichokes may not be a widely-consumed vegetable that's well-liked. They are, however, a powerhouse packed with many vitamins and nutrients vital to your well-being. As such, they should be included in your regular dietary plans so you can take advantage of all they offer.
Artichokes are Packed With Antioxidants
One of the most antioxidant-rich foods out there, artichokes rank high in their disease-fighting abilities. Eat more of them each week, and you'll improve your chances of preventing prostate, liver, and breast cancer, in particular. They're also beneficial for the immune system overall.
Artichokes Offer Lots of Vitamin C
Some of that antioxidant power is due to the abundance of Vitamin C. It boosts your immune system, helps you fight off colds, and keeps your body feeling good overall. A large artichoke offers nearly 20 milligrams of Vitamin C.
Artichokes Contain Folate and Fiber
Both fiber and folate are essential for your digestive tract and overall well-being. If you're currently experiencing stomach irritation or bloat, eating foods rich in fiber can help minimize these feelings and return your stomach to normal. Keep your iron levels where they need to be as well with plenty of folate in your diet from artichokes.
Artichokes Assist With Weight Loss
Losing weight won't happen if you don't maintain a low-calorie diet. It's a good thing then that artichokes are low in calories. They also have nearly no fat, which makes them ideal to eat on a regular basis. Bake them with garlic and onions and add them as a side dish, or snack on a few in a veggie dip.
Artichokes Provide Potassium
Potassium and Vitamin K are plentiful in artichokes. Improving your strength and healing injuries are possible when you have a diet rich in both of these nutrients. Artichokes offer nearly 500 milligrams of potassium, making them a very worthwhile source.
Try Artichoke Extract
You don't have to eat an entire artichoke to gain some of these benefits. Of course, a fresh version is the best solution, but you can even try artichoke extract if you're hoping to enhance your health without eating as much of the food. Taking artichoke extract can help lower your blood sugar.
Add artichokes to your diet and get the health boost you need to thrive. This vegetable should be on your weekly menu at the very least so you can take advantage of all they offer. Steaming, baking, boiling, or grilling are all excellent ways to help change up the flavor without adding extra fat or sodium to the mix. To improve the taste, you can always add seasonings and herbs. Just skip the salt.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Asheville, N.C.