Stuffed with breadcrumbs or with hearts removed and baked into a cheesy dip, you probably know artichokes better as a gourmet treat than an herbal remedy. But artichoke extract is known to provide a variety of health-promoting benefits, from encouraging healthy digestion to strengthening liver function.
Made from the long, serrated basal leaves of the artichoke plant, artichoke extract is believed to enhance bile production, which helps the liver regulate its production of cholesterol. Bile also plays a part in the removal of toxins from the body, so its healthy flow is important to overall health.
Artichoke may also stimulate production of digestive juices, promoting healthy digestion. An informal study in 2001 showed that supplementing with artichoke extract for six weeks notably improved symptoms of individuals suffering with irritable bowel syndrome. More research, however, is needed to confirm these effects.
The recommended daily dose of artichoke extract is one to two capsules with meals daily. You may also find artichoke in combination formulas with milk thistle, which also promotes healthy liver function.
I don't think I've actually had one to eat for quite some time. Where is the best place to find this extract?
Posted by: Kim 12 | January 12, 2009 at 11:47 AM
Great post, thanks for the information.
Posted by: Sports Nutrition Lover | September 17, 2008 at 04:54 PM
Hi
We would just like to say thay we too think it is important to look after your health and body.
Good food for good health is the key to life. One of the most important organs in your body is your liver, so you should do all you can to look after it.
By fuelling the liver with good food you can detox and clense your liver that will in turn lead to good health.
Good health is what we all strive for especially in older life so the younger we start looking after our liver the better we will be.
Sandra & Ted
http://azland55.wordpress.com/
Posted by: Sandra & Ted | April 13, 2008 at 10:39 AM