benefits of artichoke

Color pigments in Artichokes that are powerful antioxidants. They are associated with a lower risk of certain cancers, urinary tract health, memory function and healthy aging. The high concentration of cynarin in artichokes not only affects cholesterol, but can also improve digestive health. Cynarin is known to stimulate the production of bile, which enables us to digest fats and absorb vitamins from our food, making artichokes an excellent way to start any meal, especially if it is rich and high in fat, the way the French often do it.

A potent antioxidant also found in red wine and black tea. It has been shown to inhibit cell proliferation in prostate cancer cells. Over six weeks, participants were split up, with half receiving artichoke extract and the rest a placebo. The patients receiving artichoke were shown to have an 18.5 per cent reduction in cholesterol level. Pretty impressive!

Very powerful polyphenol antioxidants that may lower cholesterol levels. Artichokes are very concentrated in cyanarin, which may also help in regeneration of liver tissue. Artichokes also contain the flavonoid silymarin, which protects the liver. Silymarin reduces the process of lipid peroxidation from occurring in the cell membranes of the tissues of the liver, making the artichoke the ideal vegetable to help your liver function better. Especially when you over indulge in fatty barbecues, Christmas feasts and birthday dinners.

Contains anti cancer, antimicrobial, anti LDL (bad cholesterol) and antiviral properties. Studies have shown that the antioxidants rutin, quercetin and gallic acid found in artichoke leaf extract are able to induce apoptosis (cell death) and reduce the proliferation of cancer cells.

A powerful antioxidant that may aid the liver in regenerative tissue growth. One artichoke contains approximately one fourth of the average adult`s daily fiber requirements. It is also packed with vitamin C, potassium, folic acid and magnesium!!

Artichokes contain more disease fighting antioxidants than any other vegetable. In a review of the 100 most antioxidant rich foods from all food groups, artichokes came in at number seven!

According to a study done in Italy, a diet rich in the antioxidants found in artichokes lowers your breast cancer risk.

If you ve already been diagnosed with liver, kidney or gallbladder disease, talk to your health care provider before adding artichokes to your diet. Since they stimulate bile production, they could complicate your present condition.

The artichoke is a large thistle that belongs to the sunflower family. The green vegetable has several thick pointed leaves attached to a central heart. It resembles a large flower bud on top of a slender stalk. The soft petal bases and heart of the vegetable are the edible portions. It is one of the highly nutritious vegetables available during the winter. California leads in the cultivation of this vegetable where it is available throughout the year. This regally packaged vegetable has several nutrients.

Cardiovascular health the high quantities of potassium in the vegetable help to maintain normal heart rhythm. Research studies have shown a strong link between high potassium diets and reduced risk of stroke. Potassium also tones down the effect of sodium on blood pressure. This helps to maintain healthy blood pressure, which promotes good health of the heart. Certain phytonutrients in the vegetable help to lower bad cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of stroke and cardiovascular disease.