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.
Note: Even though artichokes exhibit great nutritional benefits, they are not a complete food.
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 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. References
All fruits and vegetables offer outstanding health benefits. Nutritional research shows
that each one contains its own set of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and other
important nutrients. To get the maximum health benefits, experts recommend eating a
variety of fruits and vegetables along with other natural foods.
Nutrient Values (# of calories, fats, vitamins, minerals, and more)
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The
content on this website is not intended to diagnose, cure, or prevent any disease.
|
EveryNutrient.Com
Vitamins, Minerals, Antioxidants, and More