5 beneficial properties of Jerusalem artichoke syrup for human health
Jerusalem artichoke (also known as Tuberous sunflower or Ground pear) is a valuable root vegetable rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and dietary fiber. It is often taken in the form of syrup or juice.
Jerusalem artichoke syrup differs not only in its special taste, but also has important useful properties. It is able to improve liver health, improve intestinal function, and protect the body from diabetes mellitus and atherosclerosis.
Syrup is also good a sugar substitute and is more preferable for weight loss.
5 useful properties
The main theses on the benefits of regular consumption of jerusalem artichoke syrup (based on scientific sources of information) are described below.
1. Improves the composition of the microflora
There is a large amount of Jerusalem artichoke syrup in the composition dietary fiber .
Fiber, represented to a greater extent inulin , serves as food for friendly microorganisms. Against what background is declining the number of pathogenic and opportunistic bacteria in the intestine increases, the number of beneficial ones increases.
Dietary fiber is also necessary for the well-coordinated work of all departments of the large intestine, rapid and complete excretion of feces.
2. Normalizes the absorption of nutrients
When taking any Jerusalem artichoke-based products for a long time observed normalization of the concentration of calcium and phosphorus in the blood, as well as some biochemical parameters (glucose, cholesterol, urea).
Calcium and phosphorus are important minerals necessary for coordinated muscle contraction, transmission of nerve impulses and Maintaining bone strength .
Ground pear syrup normalizes the work of intestinal epithelial cells, which allows you to effectively absorb nutrients from other foods.
3. Fights type II diabetes
Jerusalem Artichoke antioxidants have been proven increase sensitivity of peripheral tissues (fat and muscle) to insulin. As a result, the cells begin to effectively capture glucose, and its concentration in the blood decreases.
Similarly, Jerusalem artichoke can affect the main pathogenetic mechanism of the development of type II diabetes mellitus – insulin resistance.
Syrup can be used for prevention purposes, as well as for additional control (together with medications) of type II diabetes mellitus.
4. Reduces cholesterol levels
Research by Polish specialists demonstrate that the use of jerusalem artichoke helps to reduce the level of total cholesterol and triglycerides in blood plasma.
Similar medicinal properties are provided thanks to inulin, a significant part of which gets from Jerusalem artichoke and into syrup.
Adequate cholesterol levels do not create conditions for the formation of atherosclerotic plaques on the walls of arterial vessels and the development of diseases such as coronary heart disease, myocardial infarction, chronic cerebral ischemia, stroke.
5. Supports liver health
One of the most common liver diseases is fatty hepatosis. This pathology often develops against the background of diabetes mellitus or obesity and is characterized by the replacement of organ cells with adipose tissue.
Gradually, the size of the liver increases, and functional activity fades.
As of today installed that regular addition of jerusalem artichoke to the diet can reduce the risk of fatty liver hepatosis. The effect is both short-term and long-term.
Harm and contraindications
Jerusalem artichoke syrup can be harmful to health, as it has contraindications and side effects.
Harmful properties include:
- Intestinal disorder . When taking large amounts of syrup, bloating and increased gas production may occur.
- Allergic reactions . They occur when the body is sensitized to certain components of the syrup. They can manifest themselves in different ways.
- Exacerbation of chronic diseases of the digestive system . Jerusalem artichoke contains extraactive substances that cause irritation of the mucous membranes. When taken on an empty stomach or in excessive amounts, the syrup can provoke an exacerbation of chronic gastritis, duodenitis, and peptic ulcer disease.
Step-by-step recipe
It is possible to prepare jerusalem artichoke syrup at home. Sugar is not specifically used in this recipe so that the resulting product remains as useful as possible.
Will require:
- 1 kg of Jerusalem artichoke tubers;
- 1 lemon.
Cooking scheme:
- Thoroughly rinse the tubers, remove the skin.
- Chop the tubers in a meat grinder, in a blender or on a fine grater.
- Squeeze the resulting mass through gauze.
- Pour the juice into any enameled container. Put it on the fire.
- Preheat the mixture to 50-70 °C and simmer for 7-10 minutes.
- Cool the juice to room temperature and simmer again for 7-10 minutes, then cool again. Repeat these steps 5-6 times.
- Squeeze the lemon juice and add to the mixture. Heat it up again to 50-70 °C and, stirring thoroughly, simmer on fire for 1-3 minutes.
- Cool the syrup and pour into sterile glass containers. If necessary, roll it up.
Tips for use
Let's focus on the key aspects of using syrup:
- How to store . It is recommended to store the finished product in the refrigerator in sealed glass containers for up to 1-2 months. If the jars with syrup are rolled up, the shelf life increases to 6-8 months.
- When can I take . The product can be consumed throughout the day. The main thing is to avoid taking it in the morning (on an empty stomach), as well as after a long period of fasting (from 6 hours). For medicinal purposes, the syrup is taken 1 tbsp. l. 30 minutes before meals (except breakfast).
- What to combine with . Jerusalem artichoke syrup is a natural sweetener. It can be added to any dessert dishes, pastries (at the stage of kneading the dough) and drinks (up to 50 ml per day). It goes well with nuts and dried fruits, especially dates.
Conclusion
- Jerusalem artichoke syrup is a natural sweetener that can be added to almost any food and drink.
- The product improves the balance of microflora, fights diabetes mellitus and atherosclerosis, facilitates the absorption of certain nutrients, and also takes care of liver health.
- Side effects may develop when taken. It is recommended to take a careful approach to including dessert in the diet in order to minimize health risks.