How a Yard of Yellow May Benefit Your Health
By Brandi Goodman
Your yard of yellow dandelions that spring up quickly throughout the warmest months of the year brings more benefits than you may realize. Not to your yard, of course, but to you when you consume them. Dandelions have long been used as a medicinal plant because of their vitamin and mineral content.
They're Packed With Vitamins
You won't just be getting one vitamin when you consume a dandelion. You'll be getting multiple. Dandelions are packed with all sorts of vitamins that are beneficial to your health. You'll get a good dose of Vitamin A, Vitamin K, and Vitamin C. There's also smaller amounts of various B vitamins and Vitamin E.
They Fight Cancer
Antioxidants are necessary for fighting cancer and disease within the body. It's a good thing then that dandelions are full of them. Dandelions provide large amounts of beta-carotene and polyphenols. These antioxidant versions work to prevent cellular damage.
They Reduce Inflammation
People who drink dandelion tea often do so to help with inflammation and discomfort. The polyphenols that work to ease oxidative stress can also help reduce inflammation. It can be especially beneficial for lung inflammation.
They Control Your Blood Sugar
If you experience fluctuating blood sugar levels that rise or fall to dangerous levels, then dandelions may be a safe solution. They work to control your blood sugar due to the bioactive compounds found within them. These compounds can assist your body with absorbing glucose through muscle tissue and enhance insulation secretion handled by the pancreas.
They May Improve Liver Health
Studies have primarily been conducted on animals, but results have been ideal thus far. They show that liver health may be improved with the consumption of dandelions. You don't even have to eat the dandelions to benefit. Get a dandelion extract and you'll still see results. The antioxidants found within the plant can protect liver tissue and work to reduce stored fat levels within the organ so further stress isn't caused.
It may seem strange at first, but don't let that stop you from giving dandelions a try. You can fry them up and eat them just like you would a mushroom, or make them into a tea. You can also create an extract. Find which method you prefer and let your yard of yellow become beneficial for your health.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Portland, Ore.