Lose weight, boost liver health with Artichokes. Know all benefits inside

Artichokes, with their unique, layered appearance and delicate flavour, have been a popular addition to the diet since time immemorial. This thistle-like vegetable, native to the Mediterranean, isn’t just a pretty and delicious addition to a plate, but is also a nutritional powerhouse with a wealth of nutrients and impressive benefits.
Artichokes are low in fat and rich in fibre, apart from being rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They are particularly high in folate and vitamin C, apart from other important minerals such as magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium. Artichokes come with just 90 calories per cooked cup (170 g) and around 5 g of protein.
To find the right artichokes, look for the ones with tight, firm leaves and a vibrant green colours. Preparing them can seem daunting, but it isn’t that tricky. Trim the sharp leaf tips, remove the fuzzy interior and either cook the hearts whole or break them down into smaller pieces.

If you are looking for a boost in liver function, artichokes can be your ideal dietary companion. According to Research Gate, antioxidant activity and effects on the liver and lipid profile are the main health-promoting properties of this plant. Artichoke can improve liver function for people with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, as per studies.

Helps manage high blood pressure

Artichokes are great dietary addition for those with hypertension. According to a study published in Complementary Therapies in Medicine, that among people with high blood pressure, 12 weeks of consuming artichokes significantly reduced their blood pressure.

Weight loss

Artichokes are low in calories – just 44 per 100 gms and are a powerhouse of fibre.

Phytosterols

, present in the vegetable, can help reduce “bad” cholesterol levels, as per a study published in journal Nutrients. Besides, they are a storehouse of nutrients like proteins, fibre, phosphorus, potassium, sterols, and cynarin.

Gut health

Artichokes are great for your digestion too. A variety of artichokes called Jerusalem artichokes are a great source of inulin and provide prebiotics which can boost your gut health.

Other health-boosting properties

Artichokes also have anti-cancer, antimetabolic, antiobesity, prebiotic and probiotic, renoprotective and antidiabetic activities.

How to add artichokes to diet

Artichokes are a staple in Mediterranean cuisine and can be used in a variety of recipes:
Steam or boil them and add some melted butter or a tangy vinaigrette to enjoy the natural flavours of artichokes.
You can also add them to salads, pizzas, and pastas after marinating them.
Artichokes have a mild taste, but your tongue may not detect its sweetness due to a compound called cynarin.