The artichoke is a vegetable that helps lower fat levels in the blood. It is a strong antioxidant that protects oxidized cells and helps improve cellular DNA, in addition to helping reduce obesity, diabetes and inflammation.
Fluid retention can lead to weight gain. But a diet that includes artichoke will make bloating a thing of the past. It acts as a diuretic and cleanses the body, leading to weight loss since it is low-calorie.
The artichoke is known to the world of science as Cynara scolymus. The United States Department of Agriculture has confirmed that it is one of the most important vegetables because of its large quantities of antioxidants, not to mention its high vitamin C, vitamin K, magnesium, potassium and folate (folic acid) content.
The pinnately lobed leaves of this perennial are approximately 23 1/2 inches long. The vegetable is harvested in spring because it is most tender during that season, but it leaves can be harvested all year round.