Endive (type Of Chicory) - Benefits And Harms

Karen Lennox Author: Karen Lennox Time for reading: ~2 minutes Last Updated: August 08, 2022
Endive (type Of Chicory) - Benefits And Harms

CHAPTERS (Table Of Contents)



Endive Is A Type Of Chicory Whose Leaves Resemble Arugula. It Has A Bitter Taste, Is Low In Calories, Rich In Vitamins And Minerals. It Is Good For Bones, Eyes, Heart And Overall Health.

Endive is a plant, a type of chicory, whose leaves resemble arugula. There are several species, differing mainly in the shape and color of the leaves. They are characterized by a bitter taste, contain a large amount of water, nearly 95% of the total mass.

It is used mainly in cooking because of its valuable health properties. Its slightly bitter taste goes perfectly with nuts, cheeses, vegetables, and fruits. It can be consumed with or without heat treatment, as the health qualities of the plant do not change.

Nutritional composition of endive

The plant is rich in nutrients and vitamins, some of which are vitamins E, B1, B2, B6, B9, provitamin A, and vitamin C. Contains minerals such as potassium, zinc, copper, manganese, iron, magnesium, phosphorus. Endive is an easily digestible food, suitable for following diets, as it contains important nutrients for the body and at the same time is characterized by a low amount of fat and calories.

 

Useful properties of endive

Its consumption helps the proper functioning of the liver and bile, prevents the development of anemia, and thanks to the folic acid in the composition, promotes the maturation of red blood cells and the reactions of DNA synthesis. Folic acid plays a vital role in preventing the birth of babies with birth defects. Thanks to retinol, the endive contributes to the health of the eyes, skin, and strengthens the immune system. It has an antioxidant and diuretic action. Helps maintain normal blood pressure by fighting hypertension. The plant contains almost no cholesterol and saturated fats, which makes it a healthy food for the heart, as well as suitable for the prevention of cardiovascular disease. The inulin in it helps lower LDL "bad" cholesterol, which is important for the health of the cardiovascular system.

Thanks to iron, phosphorus, and calcium, the plant strengthens the bone system and teeth, regulates metabolism, and improves blood circulation. Consumption of endive promotes normal intestinal peristalsis, preventing heartburn and stomach upsets because it is a rich source of fiber.

The content of vitamin A in the endive helps prevent cancer of the rectum, bladder, and melanoma. Vitamin E, present in the plant, helps prevent prostate cancer.

The combination of high fiber and low calories makes endive excellent food for a weight loss diet.

Studies show that vitamin E can help prevent Alzheimer's disease, and endive contains significant amounts of it.

 

Contraindications to endive consumption

Endive is safe to eat. Only in case of individual intolerance can unwanted side effects occur.

Silicic acid contained in the endive can cause side effects in people allergic to this acid. These can be skin reactions, cough, shortness of breath, and others. These people should avoid eating endive and foods containing silicates.

 

 

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