Health Benefits of Artichokes
The following information states the major nutrients found in artichokes. It also reveals
research findings on the health benefits of eating artichokes.
sugars. So not only are artichokes low in calories due to this carbohydrate, but they
are also extremely beneficial to diabetics. Insulin has been shown to improve blood
sugar control in diabetes.
Throughout history artichokes have been known to treat many liver diseases, and
recent scientific evidence supports this longtime use. Artichokes contain active
ingredients called caffeoylquinic acids, such as cynarin. A high concentration of those
compounds are found within the leaves. They are also found in the bracts and
heart. Due to their choleretic effect, artichokes promote the flow of bile and fat to
and from the liver. If bile is not transported adequately to the gall bladder, the liver is
at increased risk of being damaged. Choleretics are very useful in liver diseases such
as hepatitis. Choleretics also lower cholesterol levels because they increase the
excretion of cholesterol and decrease the manufacture of cholesterol in the liver.
Sources:
Murray , Michael N.D.. The Encyclopedia Of Healing Foods.
New York: Atria Books, 2005.
Centers For Disease Control And Prevention-5 A Day.
National Agricultural Library-USDA. usda.gov.
Wikipedia The Free Encyclopedia
Artichokes are an excellent
source of dietary magnesium,
fiber, and the trace mineral
chromium. They are also a very
good source of vitamins A and C,
folic acid, biotin, niacin, riboflavin,
thiamine, potassium, the trace
mineral manganese, and a
carbohydrate that is in the form
of insulin.
Fresh artichokes contain a
carbohydrate, in the form of
insulin, which is a polysaccharide
or starch that is handled by the
body differently than other
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The content on this website is for educational purposes only. Please consult with your physician before using natural remedies and before making any drastic changes to your diet or exercise program.
|
Nutrients
Vitamins
Minerals
Phytochemicals
Other Nutrients