Jerusalem artichoke, otherwise known as Helianthus tuberosus or tuberous sunflower, is a plant originating from North America.
What does tuberous sunflower look like?
Its edible parts are underground tubers, from which grow tall stems with large leaves and yellow flowers located at the very top of the plant, looking like sunflowers.
What can we find in Tuberous sunflower?
Tubers of Jerusalem artichoke are characterized by a content of many beneficial substances and nutrients. Jerusalem artichoke is a good source of B vitamins and vitamin C. It also provides a lot of minerals, such as:
- B vitamins
- magnesium and calcium
- iron and potassium
- phosphorus
Moreover, it contains inulin, a substance that is known as a natural prebiotic.
What properties does Jerusalem artichoke have?
Due to its composition, tuberous sunflower has numerous health properties. The most important of them are:
- influence on lowering the level of so-called bad cholesterol in the blood
- protection against the development of atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular diseases
- support of the regulation and normalization of blood glucose levels (especially important for diabetics)
- influence on the growth of beneficial intestinal microflora (thus improving digestion, preventing constipation and restoring optimal bowel movement)
- supporting the process of slimming and cleansing the body of toxins
- lowering blood pressure, supporting treatment of hypertension and preventing its development
- improving the functioning of the nervous system
Tuberous sunflower and slimming
Tuberous sunflower is a plant especially recommended for people on slimming diets. How many calories does Jerusalem artichoke have? The energy value of Jerusalem artichoke, similarly to potatoes, is just over 70 kcal in 100 grams. Nevertheless, tuberous sunflower seeds can be successfully included in the diet by people struggling with excessive weight.
In its composition, we will find large amounts of dietary fibre, which swells in the stomach and provides a long-lasting feeling of satiety. In addition, the consumption of this plant contributes to the normalisation of blood sugar levels and prevents its considerable fluctuations. This is particularly important during weight loss because too intensive glucose spikes lead to hunger attacks and snacking between meals.
The benefits of eating Jerusalem artichoke also include the influence of inulin on the digestive system. It supports its work, facilitating emptying and accelerating metabolism. Moreover, inulin has a prebiotic effect. It provides a medium for the beneficial bacterial microflora in the intestines, which is essential during weight loss. Numerous studies indicate that it is the deficiency of beneficial bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract that causes problems in the fight against excess weight. However, the inclusion of probiotics and prebiotics in the daily diet accelerates and supports effective weight loss.
Jerusalem artichoke and cleansing the body of toxins
Tuberous sunflower not only brings benefits in the process of weight loss but also has an effect on the cleansing of the body from toxins. Detoxification of the body improves the functioning of the whole organism, ensures well-being and maintaining a slim figure. Excessive toxins can lead to an increase in body weight, difficulties in slimming, weakness, constant fatigue, sleepiness, problems with concentration and many other unpleasant ailments.
The already mentioned inulin contributes to detoxification by binding harmful compounds and intensifying their removal. Thanks to this, all kinds of harmful substances are excreted at a very fast rate and do not remain in the body for a long time.
Moreover, it has been shown that the consumption of Jerusalem artichoke helps to clear the blood of alcohol, so it can be used in case of poisoning or alcoholic intoxication. The cleansing effect of Jerusalem artichoke leads to a strengthening of the immune system, improved metabolism and general health and well-being.
