Why Artichokes Can Be Good For You
Globe artichokes are a versatile food ingredient that are extremely popular for the plethora of health benefits they provide. This medicinal plant protects against various types of cancers, lowers high blood cholesterol levels, protects the liver, boosts immunity and supports heart health as well. Here’s a list of some of the health benefits of this miraculous plant.
Artichokes Lower High Blood Glucose Levels
Studies have found that the leaves of artichokes possess strong anti-diabetic properties. They help in the preservation of pancreatic beta-cells and induce more insulin secretion. Therefore, by making artichokes a part of your regular diet, uncontrolled diabetes mellitus can be managed very well.
Prevents Cancer
Antioxidants are the primary defense mechanisms that protect the cells of the body against free radical damage and oxidative stress, which are the main causes of cancer initiation and progression. Polyphenols, a class of healthy compounds present in artichokes, inhibit the growth multiplication and spread of cancer cells. Another compound named ‘quercetin’ present in artichokes decreases the chances of developing cancer and induces the death of cancer cells.
Supports Heart Health
This medicinal plant helps in reducing unhealthy cholesterol that otherwise gets clogged in the arteries and obstructs smooth blood flow, which weakens the heart. It also reduces inflammation and injury to the heart muscle caused by free radicals.
Aids In Weight Loss
Artichokes are a great source of dietary fibre, which is a great strategy for weight loss. Consuming foods rich in dietary fibre, such as artichokes, keeps one full, satiated and delays hunger pangs. This limits excess food intake and helps in restricting the entry of excess calories into the system.
Regulates Blood Pressure
Studies have found that along with sodium restriction, regular intake of artichoke juice is beneficial for individuals with mild hypertension, as it helps the arteries to relax, widen and ensure smooth blood flow throughout the body.
Nutritive Value
Artichokes are a moderate source of energy. Hundred grams of artichokes contain approximately 50 calories. It is a great source of dietary fibre, moderate source of protein and is low in fat. Furthermore, artichokes are a fair source of an array of minerals which include the following:
- Magnesium
- Manganese
- Potassium
- Phosphorus
- Copper
- Iron
- Zinc
This medicinal plant is also a decent source of certain vitamins like:
- Vitamin K
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin B1, B2, B3 and B6