Artichoke: Answer to Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Prickly on the outside, artichokes may not be the first plant that comes to mind when thinking of digestive health, but they could hold a soothing answer for those people who endure the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. Artichoke is rich in compounds improving the symptoms of IBS like bloating, cramps, and bowel movements.
One of the active ingredients that helps artichokes support IBS symptoms is their high content of fiber. Fiber regulates digestion by encouraging peristalsis and softening to minimize constipation. The soluble fiber in artichokes, especially inulin, serves as a prebiotic in feeding good bacteria within the gut to encourage a healthy gut environment. A good gut microbiome helps reduce flare-ups of IBS and contributes generally to good digestive health.
Artichokes also contain an element called cynarin, which aids the liver by secreting bile. Bile is highly necessary for fat absorption and will help the movement of food along the digestive tract smoothly to avoid symptoms of indigestion and bloating very commonly related to IBS.
Apart from the digestive benefits, artichokes are extremely high in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. These help soothe one’s digestive tract and reduce inflammation inside the digestive tract. The soothing nature of an artichoke will make it a good option for people with sensitive stomachs or chronic digestive disorders, like IBS.
Tender-whether steamed, grilled, or mixed in salads-they are quite effective in digestion and in easing symptoms of the irritable bowel syndrome.