Artichokes are often prepared and cooked as vegetables, but did you know that they’re technically a type of thistle? These humble veggies are highly nutritious and even have anti-diabetic properties, according to a study published in the journal BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies.

Artichokes against hyperglycemia

Hyperglycemia is the technical term for high blood glucose (or blood sugar). People with Type 1 diabetes develop hyperglycemia because their bodies don’t produce enough insulin, the hormone that cells need to convert glucose into energy. On the other hand, those with Type 2 diabetes have insulin resistance, which means their bodies don’t use insulin properly to transport glucose to cells efficiently, which leads to glucose build-up.

For the study, scientists observed the protective effects of an ethanol extract derived from artichoke (Cynara scolymus) leaves in rat subjects.

The results showed that compared to diabetic groups, the rats treated with artichoke extract had lower blood glucose. The rats that received the extract also had lower plasma total cholesterol, triglyceride, and low-density lipoprotein levels than those in the diabetic group.

Porcini, artichoke and parsley recipe

Incorporate artichokes into your daily diet and receive its anti-diabetic benefits by making this easy porcini, artichokes, and parsley salad.

 Ingredients for 6 servings:

• 2 large artichokes (about 12 to 14 oz. each)
• 2 cups water
• 1/2 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, coarsely chopped
• 3 1/2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, divided
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 canned anchovy fillet (about 1 teaspoon), finely chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 6 oz. fresh porcini or cremini mushrooms, sliced very thinly
• 5/8 oz. (1/4 cup) aged cow’s milk cheese (e.g., Gouda or Robusto), cut into small pieces

Preparation:

1. Combine the water and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice in a large bowl, then cut the stem of each artichoke to within an inch of the base. Peel the stems.
2. Remove the bottom leaves and tough outer leaves, but keep the tender heart and bottom. Cut each artichoke in half lengthwise.
3. Remove the fuzzy thistle from the bottom of the artichoke with a spoon. Thinly slice each artichoke heart into 1/8-inch-thick slices and place them in the lemon water.
4. Combine the remaining 1 1/2 tablespoons of lemon juice, pepper, salt, thyme and anchovy in a small bowl. Gradually add the oil and keep whisking until combined.
5. Drain the artichoke hearts and pat them dry with paper towels. Combine the sliced artichoke hearts, anchovy mixture, mushrooms and parsley in a large bowl, then toss gently.
6. Divide the artichoke mixture among six small plates. Sprinkle each serving with two teaspoonfuls of cheese.

Following a balanced diet is one of the best ways to regulate your normal blood sugar levels and avoid diabetes. For more anti-diabetic vegetables like artichokes, visit Veggie.news.

Sources:

BMCComplementMedTherapies.BioMedCentral.com

Diabetes.org