Artichokes are coming into season and that means Spring is almost here! In Chinese medicine, Spring correlates to the Wood Element which correlates to the Liver and Gall Bladder. That means issues related to the Liver and Gall Bladder become more prevalent during this time. And what better than an artichoke to soothe the Liver and Gall Bladder?
Fun Fact Back in 1948, Marilyn Monroe's first claim to fame was being crowned California's first Artichoke Queen. Medicinal Benefits Artichokes are yin and blood tonics. A yin tonic helps to build fluids and a blood tonic helps to build blood. One of the main functions of the Liver in Chinese medicine is to "free course" the Qi. When the Qi does not move freely, you get stagnation. Qi stagnation can present itself in many ways in the body - muscular pain, constipation, abdominal bloating and pain, headaches, irregular periods, breast tenderness - just to name a few. Artichokes help to promote Qi circulation. They contain a phytochemical known as cynarin, which increases bile production and aids in digestive disorders marked by poor fat assimilation. In addition, cynarin lowers blood cholesterol levels and improves blood clotting time. Good for Diabetes Artichokes are an excellent source of inulin. Inulin is a natural soluble fiber that’s also a sugar. Unlike other sugars, inulin doesn’t raise your blood sugar. That’s because it’s not broken down in the stomach or small intestine. Instead, it moves right through to your colon. Research found that people with and without diabetes who ate inulin had less rise in their blood sugar. The change was likely due to the way inulin slows the absorption of carbohydrates. Good for Anemia Artichokes are also excellent for anemia, building overall energy and as immune support. Did you Know... Artichokes are among the highest in antioxidant activity. How to Prepare Artichokes Martha Stewart Recipe Ingredients:
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What causes gas?
Alright...lets get right to the point. Gas forms when bacteria in your colon ferment carbohydrates that aren't digested in your small intestine. Unfortunately, healthy, high-fiber foods are often the worst offenders. Fiber has many health benefits, including keeping your digestive tract in good working order and regulating blood sugar and cholesterol levels. But fiber can also lead to the formation of gas. Here are some of the worst offenders:
Other causes Other causes of gas include swallowing too much air every time you eat or drink, eating too fast, chewing gum, and drinking through a straw. Excess gas may be a symptom of a more serious chronic condition such as diverticulitis, IBS, ulcerative colitis, or Crohn's disease. Excess gas and bloating may also be a symptom of bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine from conditions such as diabetes. Food intolerance to dairy products and gluten may also cause gas and bloating. Artificial sweeteners, such as sorbitol, mannitol and xylitol, found in some sugar-free foods, gums and candies can cause gas and diarrhea when they are consumed. Constipation may also make it difficult to pass gas, leading to bloating and discomfort. Remedies
Choose remedies that appeal to you and implement into your daily life. May the winds be calm. Ellie |
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