Artichokes: 7 Health Benefits

While artichoke hearts are the most widely consumed part of the vegetable, artichoke leaves actually contain some of the most powerful nutrients in the artichoke. Thanks to the antioxidants and phytonutrients they contain, artichoke health benefits include helping the body detox, fighting off infection and even protecting the body from cancer.

Artichoke Health Benefits

1. May Help Prevent Cancer

Artichoke health benefits may include cancer protection. Artichokes are packed with antioxidants and phytonutrients that work to eliminate free radicals in the body. They have the ability to ward off various types of cancer by fighting off free radical buildup. Studies have shown that artichokes display cancer-fighting abilities on two types of cancer in particular - breast cancer and hepatocellular carcinoma. (1)

2. Fights Cardiovascular Disease

Artichoke health benefits include a healthy cardiovascular system. Consuming artichokes and artichoke extract can help to calm inflammation in the body, improve blood flow and reduce unhealthy cholesterol levels. Research suggests that artichokes may work as a natural remedy to help control cholesterol and maintain healthy levels. Artichokes also provide heart-healthy benefits by working to prevent coronary heart disease and metabolic disorders. (2)

3. Detoxes the Liver

Artichokes naturally help the body detox. Artichoke health benefits include the ability to boost the production of digestive bile and detox the body, which can help nourish the digestive tract and promote gut health. Studies have shown that artichoke leaf extract can help relieve symptoms associated with irritable bowel syndrome. (3)

4. Aids in Weight Loss

Thanks to their high fiber content, artichoke health benefits include the ability to aid in weight loss. Fiber ensures that the digestive system runs smoothly, to help prevent and relieve constipation and diarrhea. It also works to help the body detox waste, excess cholesterol, sugar and other toxins. By making you feel fuller longer, the fiber in artichokes can help prevent snacking and overeating to aid in weight loss.

5. Helps Control Diabetes

Artichoke health benefits include the ability to help naturally control diabetes. The fiber in artichokes help keep blood sugar levels stable. Fiber allows glucose to be absorbed into the blood more slowly, which can help prevent spikes and dips in insulin to naturally control diabetes.

6. Prevents Anemia

Artichoke health benefits also include anemia prevention, thanks to the iron the vegetable contains. An iron deficiency is linked to fatigue, a weakened immune system, poor concentration and leaky gut syndrome. By providing the body with iron, artichokes can help prevent unwanted symptoms of anemia.

7. Improves Skin Health

Artichoke health benefits also extend to your appearance. The antioxidants in artichokes help prevent the skin from aging, becoming dry and wrinkled. Artichoke health benefits also include a strong immune system, which can help protect your skin from infection and prevent the buildup of bacteria.