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Jerusalem artichoke: health benefits, recipes and contraindications

What are the properties of Jerusalem artichoke?

Jerusalem artichoke is full of benefits for the body:

  • A concentration of inulin that stimulates the growth of beneficial intestinal bacteria
  • Sulfur compounds for the proper functioning of the joints.

Nutritional values ​​of Jerusalem artichoke

Digestion, intestinal flora, calories, bloating, all the benefits of Jerusalem artichoke

Inulin to boost the intestinal flora. What is the role of prebiotics?

The Jerusalem artichoke is often discreet in the pantry of the French. However, we would gain a lot by making room for it on our plate. This root vegetable is rich in inulin – carbohydrates – this natural fiber promotes the development of bacteria beneficial to the intestine, such as bifidobacteria. A phenomenon that improves intestinal health, making Jerusalem artichoke an ideal food for health. Prebiotics promote the growth or activity of intestinal bacteria beneficial to our health.

Jerusalem artichoke in the prevention of certain cancers?

Few scientific studies have been conducted on this subject to confirm a correlation between Jerusalem artichoke consumption and the prevention of certain cancers. Its high concentration of inulin could improve the absorption of certain minerals and reduce the risk of suffering from colon and breast cancer.

Jerusalem artichoke, low in calories. Starch or vegetable? Does it make you fat?

This root vegetable provides 73 calories for a 100 gram serving. Thanks to its low fat and protein content, it is low in calories and can be consumed perfectly as part of a diet intended for weight loss. The glycemic index of Jerusalem artichoke is very low, so it is possible for people with diabetes to consume it. Contrary to what one might think, it is indeed a vegetable and not a starch. In addition, it has a high satiating power.

Potassium and vitamins, a healthy vegetable

Jerusalem artichoke contains 429 mg of potassium for a 100 gram serving. An interesting proportion because this mineral essential to the proper functioning of the body guarantees muscle contraction and good nerve transmission. If the vitamin level is interesting, the majority of vitamin C leaves during cooking.

What impact on blood pressure?

To lower your blood pressure, it is recommended to focus on foods rich in potassium. “Potassium seems to protect against high blood pressure (HTA), and even recently it appeared that it is the ratio between these two ions that influences blood pressure (AP) and the risk of cardiovascular complications”, specifies the Medical Review Swiss.

Constipation, bloating, laxative, stomach aches, gas, what consequences on transit?

Jerusalem artichoke is rich in fiber, this high fiber content impacts intestinal transit. Some have difficulty digesting it due to the sulfur compounds present in large quantities in this root vegetable. In some people, this composition can cause flatulence. To avoid this, it is recommended to cook it in two different waters. Obviously, as with other vegetables such as cauliflower, it all depends on each person’s intestinal sensitivity.

“Jerusalem artichoke”, encounter with Helianthus tuberosus

The Jerusalem artichoke owes its bad reputation to the Second World War. At this time, the French ate it in large quantities, without restriction, unlike many other foods. For many years, he was largely shunned. Today, it is making a strong comeback and making a remarkable comeback on the plates of the French.

Jerusalem artichoke, Helianthus tuberosus, landed in Europe at the beginning of the 17th century. It comes directly from North America. This “earth pear” surprises with its taste resembling that of the artichoke, a slightly sweet flavor far from its not always attractive appearance.

In what season to pick it up?

Each year, Jerusalem artichoke tubers are ripe when the foliage begins to turn yellow. Precisely, they can be picked up between the months of October and April. This vegetable is truly a star of the fall season. After this harvest period, they grow back.

At the time of purchase, how to choose it well? What varieties? What taste ?

There are several varieties of Jerusalem artichoke: white with a very fragrant taste, red, spindle, with smooth tubers, etc. At the time of purchase, it is essential to choose one with firm flesh.

What is the conservation of Jerusalem artichoke?

Like the potato, this root vegetable must be kept cool and protected from light. In this way, it keeps for a long time and keeps all its nutritional and taste qualities.

Namely, we only consume the tuber of the Jerusalem artichoke. To avoid the risk of flatulence and intestinal upset as much as possible, it is recommended to eat it cooked and to cook it in two waters. Precisely, it must be immersed in cold water, thanks to this process, the sulfur compounds decrease, making digestion easier.

This vegetable can come in many forms. It can be roasted in the oven with a drizzle of olive oil or boiled then put in a salad with shallot and parsley. It’s up to you to find your favorite recipe!

What are the side effects of Jerusalem artichoke?

Flatulence is the main adverse effect caused by the consumption of Jerusalem artichoke. To minimize the risk of stomach aches, it is recommended not to consume it immediately after picking. Indeed, it is more digestible a few days after harvest.

What are the contraindications of Jerusalem artichoke?

Some people should not consume Jerusalem artichoke because of the effects it may have on transit. Thus, for people suffering from irritable bowel syndrome, it is better to abstain. More broadly, it is not recommended for anyone with intestinal sensitivity. For the same reasons, it is not advisable to give Jerusalem artichoke to children. For them, eating this vegetable can cause gas and make them uncomfortable.

Be careful, its high potassium content makes it a contraindicated vegetable in case of renal pathology

Additional info: Jerusalem artichoke, a cousin of the potato?

Contrary to popular belief, the Jerusalem artichoke is not a type of potato. Indeed, even if the appearance is similar, these two vegetables are not from the same family. Potatoes are part of the Solanaceae family, and Jerusalem artichokes are part of the Asteraceae family, as are artichokes and lettuce.

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