Jerusalem artichoke (100g)

Description

Beneficial qualities of topinambour

Jerusalem artichoke originates from South America, where it is actively used in the cuisine of indigenous tribes. One of these tribes gave its name to this tuber, also known as "Jerusalem artichoke," "earth pear," and "sun root." Each name has its own logic.

In terms of nutritional value, Jerusalem artichokes can rival the popular potato, which was also imported from across the oceans. Furthermore, unlike potatoes, they are not fussy to grow, are pest-resistant, and can be harvested for many years. But Jerusalem artichokes' main advantage over potatoes is their vitamin and mineral content.

The chemical composition of Jerusalem artichoke includes:

sugars, pectins, proteins and amino acids, dietary fibers which are difficult to digest plant fibers, which in the human body perform detoxification and excretion functions, their quantity in Jerusalem artichoke does not decrease even with food processing, mineral salts of silicon, calcium, potassium, iron and zinc, phosphorus, magnesium, vitamins - most of all vitamins of group B (in particular vitamin B1) and also vitamin C.

Regular consumption of Jerusalem artichoke has a positive effect on blood sugar levels, lowering its concentration due to its content of a specific substance—inulin. This makes Jerusalem artichoke incredibly suitable for diabetic diets, as well as for preventing this metabolic disorder.

Consuming several Jerusalem artichoke tubers per week will have a positive effect on digestive processes. Many clinical studies have shown that Jerusalem artichoke improves digestive function:

The same inulin binds and removes from the blood toxic substances that enter the intestine during food digestion; inulin accelerates the activity of the gastrointestinal tract and gallbladder; the composition of Jerusalem artichoke has a positive effect on the condition of the mucous membranes and blood circulation in them, and is therefore recommended for action against inflammatory and ulcerative processes in this area; Jerusalem artichoke has antiemetic and anti-nausea effects, relieves heartburn and a bitter taste in the mouth, eliminates pain and bloating.

Studies have shown that a dose of Jerusalem artichoke has a decongestant effect (for edema of both renal and cardiac origin), and according to scientists, the reason for this effect lies in the tuber's diuretic properties.

Being a source of antioxidants, Jerusalem artichoke neutralizes the negative effects of free radicals, allowing the body to actively resist pathogenic microflora.

Jerusalem artichoke protects the body against pathogenic bacteria and parasitic invasions. This applies both to its effect on the immune system and, for example, to protecting the intestines against giardiasis and opisthorchiasis. A normal intestinal microflora is the key to a strong immune system, and Jerusalem artichoke can help in this fight.

Credits FatosDeSaúde