The Mighty Artichoke
A Mediterranean Superfood for Cholesterol, Blood Sugar & Liver Support
Artichokes are a highly healthy, delicious vegetable that is also fun to eat. You might not know that artichokes are also a nutrient superfood powerhouse. Artichoke is a major component of the heart healthy Mediterranean diet.
Heart Health & Cholesterol Support
Studies show artichoke leaf extract can significantly lower LDL (“bad”) cholesterol, and triglycerides, as well as improve HDL (“good”) cholesterol.
Research suggests artichoke extracts work similarly to statins by inhibiting cholesterol production and increasing its excretion, though effects typically appear after 6-12 weeks.
It protects cells from oxidative damage from LDL cholesterol, reduces inflammation, improves vascular relaxation, and reduces cardiovascular risk factors like triglycerides. Artichoke is suggested to alleviate diet-induced obesity, insulin resistance, and fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in studies.
Key Compounds in Artichokes
The compound cynarin (a phytochemical), luteolin and Caffeoylquinic acids contained in artichokes inhibit cholesterol production and metabolism.
- Cynarin stimulates bile flow from the liver, which helps eliminate cholesterol from the body.
- Luteolin promotes vascular relaxation (vasodilation) and helps prevent the oxidation of LDL cholesterol. It supports healthy liver function and bile flow, which assists in fat digestion.
- Caffeoylquinic acids (CQAs) inhibit the HMG-CoA reductase enzyme, similar to how statin drugs function, to reduce the body’s internal production of cholesterol. They also reduce LDL oxidation, and promote cholesterol removal from cells.
Studies also suggest artichoke extract can significantly reduce triglyceride levels.
Blood Sugar Benefits
Artichokes can help manage blood sugar due to their high fiber and antioxidants, which slow glucose absorption and improve insulin sensitivity, with studies showing reduced fasting blood sugar and insulin resistance with artichoke or artichoke extract, making them beneficial for prediabetes and diabetes
Artichokes help blood sugar via the abundant fiber contained in the leaves which slows down sugar absorption into the bloodstream, preventing rapid spikes in blood glucose levels. They contain natural antioxidants that contribute to better blood sugar control and improve insulin resistance. Artichokes are low in net carbohydrates, so you can eat artichokes fresh, steamed or baked!
Liver, Kidney & Detox Support
Artichokes are great for liver and kidney health, supporting detoxification, bile production, and cell protection, (though people with kidney disease be careful of potassium intake). They help the liver by reducing fat and inflammation, and support kidneys by increasing urine flow and urea excretion. They help lower uric acid and creatinine levels, reducing the burden on kidneys.
Artichokes contain a unique form of fiber known as inulin. Inulin is one of the most available and the more promising prebiotics in the food supply.
Artichoke Extract & Lipid Therapy Support
Supplementation with artichoke extract is associated with a significant reduction in both total and LDL-C, and triglycerides, suggesting that supplementation may be synergistic with lipid-lowering therapy in patients with hyperlipidemia.
Personalized Support
For specific help or for more information call the Tree of Life Wellness Center Inc. (508-336-4242). Always consult your healthcare provider before adding new supplements.
Jane Jansen – Holistic Practitioner / Host Holistic Health line Radio
Tree of Life Wellness Center Foundational Medicine & Immune System Therapy
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