Foods packed with nutrients are extremely valuable for our diet, and there’s a particular superfood you shouldn’t ignore the next time you go grocery shopping.
Artichokes may not be at the top of everyone’s favorite food list, but once you learn about all the nutritional perks these weird-looking bulbs offer, you might change your mind.
While you may find them in the vegetable section, artichokes are actually a type of thistle. If you’ve never tried them before, their shape may evoke more questions than answers. Don’t worry, you won’t be eating the spiky outer leaves. You’ll also discard the feathery center “choke” and only use the artichoke heart, the base of the petals, and the center of the stem. Steam, grill, boil, or bake the edible parts; there are plenty of delicious recipes on the internet.
Now you know what an artichoke is and how to eat it, but what makes it so nutritious? Artichokes are high in fiber, which makes them a friend to your digestive system. They are also low in fat and contain a long list of vitamins, including vitamin C, vitamin K, folate, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, vitamin B6, iron, etc. Some of them make up a considerable portion of your daily recommended intake. Packed with antioxidants, artichokes can help combat oxidative stress and, thereby, inflammation. The high potassium content of this thistle helps lower blood pressure, too.
If you’re still not convinced about adding artichokes to your meals, you can also reap a lot of benefits by taking artichoke leaf extract. Science suggests that it can effectively combat bad cholesterol (LDL), and it may even contribute to liver health.
Grab a few artichokes next time you spot them at the store to see what the hype is all about!
