Artichokes have been around for a long time. Originally found around the Mediterranean Sea, they were used by the ancient Romans to treat poor digestion. Somewhere along the line, the Romans realized artichokes also made great appetizers, and they have been a traditional Italian food ever since.
The Latin name for this greenish-purple vegetable is Cynara scolymus. Sometimes called French or Globe artichoke, it’s the flower of the plant that is sold in grocery stores. But don’t confuse it with the Jerusalem artichoke, which is really a tuber that grows in North America.
One medium artichoke supplies 20 percent of the vitamin C you need for the day. With only 60 calories, it’s also a good source of potassium and magnesium, both important for a healthy heart. And like most fruits and vegetables, it’s packed with disease-fighting antioxidants that nutritionists rave about.
3 ways artichokes keep you healthy
Steps up digestion.
As it turns out, the ancient Romans were onto something when it comes to artichokes and digestion. An ingredient in artichoke leaves helps your liver form bile – something necessary for good...