Healing Foods Series: Artichokes

Continuing with my healing food series, for March the focus is on artichokes and how they can be used to heal the body and bolster good gut health. You can read more about this series in this post if you aren’t familiar.

Artichokes are prebiotics, meaning they contain undigestible nutrients that help feed the beneficial bacteria growth within our digestive system.
They’re low in saturated fat and cholesterol while being a rich source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Some of the most common health benefits are listed below.

1. Artichokes have antioxidant power that may help prevent cancer.

2. Artichokes help fight cardiovascular disease- Consuming artichokes has been correlated with reducing unhealthy cholesterol levels, calming inflammation in the body and improving blood flow.

3. Artichokes detox the liver and digestive system- Artichokes contain a powerful antioxidant flavonoid silymarin, which is an effective liver protectant
It’s believed that the artichoke benefits IBS and other digestive disorders because of its high fiber content, ability to reduce inflammation, and artichoke’s nourishing effect on the gut lining and liver.

4. Artichokes are an excellent source of fiber- Fiber keeps the digestive system running smoothly and relieves conditions like constipation and diarrhea.

5. Artichokes help control diabetes- The high amount of fiber found in artichokes has the ability to help keep blood sugar levels stable

6. Artichokes are a good source of Iron, which prevents anemia- A one-cup serving of artichokes provides about 10 percent of the average person’s daily requirement.

7. Artichokes improve skin health and appearance- The foods we eat are how our body receives antioxidants, vitamins and minerals,

Artichokes are available 12 months a year, with the peak seasons being in the spring and fall. Not only are they deliciously tangy but they can be used in a variety of ways, as you can see from the roundup of recipes included.

Vegetable Hummus Tart

Key Ingredients