Fresh artichokes can be a bit intimidating for people both to prepare and to consume, especially in America where canned artichokes are mostly commonly used. However, even though they can be difficult, the nutrients they provide and health benefits they bring with them more than make up for the inconvenience of preparation or consumption.
There is, in fact, good reason why artichokes are such a mainstay of the Mediterranean diet and why they are consumed in such large quantities throughout southern Europe especially. Read on to find out more about the history of this amazing food as well as some of the many healing properties it possesses. It is truly one of the lesser-known but extremely healthy superfoods.
The Illustrious History of the Artichoke
The artichoke (Cynara scolymus), has one of the longest histories of human cultivation, dating back at least three thousand years to the time of the Ancient Egyptians. They were also cultivated throughout southern Europe and it was the Spanish settlers who actually brought artichokes to America in 1600 when they were settling the California coast. Even today, California remains a dominant artichoke grower, supplying nearly all of the artichokes consumed in the United States and proclaiming itself to be the “Artichoke Capital of the World”.
Nutrients and Health Benefits of Artichokes
The variety of health benefits that artichokes bring with them stem from the fact that they are such nutritional powerhouses. They are particularly rich in a number of bioactive compounds, including rutin, gallic acid, quercetin and cyarin, all of which have proven track records when it comes to preventing a variety of chronic conditions such as heart disease, liver dysfunction and cancer. As a matter of fact, in a recent analysis by the Food and Drug Administration, artichokes ranked in the top five vegetables in terms of antioxidant activity.
The health benefits of these plants are numerous. One scientific study found that artichoke leaf extract was able to decrease abdominal discomfort associated with stomach upset, reflux and heartburn and even going back to the time of the Egyptians, it was recognized as a stomach tonic. It has also been proven, in another study, to reduce cholesterol levels by 4.2% after twelve weeks of treatment with artichoke leaf extract.
There are a few groups of people who should not use this extract or who should consult with a practitioner before they do so. This includes people with gallbladder issues, liver or kidney disease or pregnant or nursing mothers.
In conclusion, even though artichokes take a little patience to prepare and consume, they are well worth the extra inconvenience. Their array of phytonutrients is impressive and results in a plant which is not only incredibly delicious but can treat a number of conditions as well.
Sources : nutrition-and-you.com, http://kodokilemir.over-blog.com, foodtrients.com
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