by
Stepy —
October 20, 2019
- Leeks are part of the Allium family of vegetables, which is the same family as garlic and onions. Since they are closely related to garlic and onions, they provide similar health benefits. Let’s look at the health benefits of leeks.
- Anti-inflammatory properties:
- The kaempferol and polyphenols in leeks have potent anti-inflammatory effects. Inflammation is considered a major risk factor for heart condition, arthritis, and many types of cancers.
- Antioxidant rich:
- Leeks are an good source of antioxidants like vitamin C. These antioxidants protect the cells from the effects of oxidative stress.
- Dr. Andrew Weil defines oxidative stress as, “the total burden placed on organisms by the constant production of free radicals in the normal course of metabolism plus whatever other pressures the environment brings to bear (natural and artificial radiation, toxins in air, food and water; and miscellaneous sources of oxidizing activity, such as tobacco smoke).”
- Protects blood vessel linings:
- Leeks are a great source of a flavonoid called kaempferol , which provides protective benefits to blood vessel linings from disease-causing free radicals. According to a study published in the European Journal of Pharmacology, kaempferol increases the production of nitric oxide, which relaxes blood vessels and lowers the risk of high blood pressure.
- Skin cancer prevention:
- A study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry showed that compounds called allyl sulfides, which are found in leeks were shown to inhibit the growth of skin cancer cells.
- Weight loss:
- Leeks are low in calories, with only 38 per vegetable. They are also a good source of dietary fiber, with 1.2g per vegetable. Fresh and real foods that are low in calories and high in fiber are key to an effective weight loss.
- For garlic as Nature’s powerful medicine.
- For the health benefits of red onions.
- Note: None of the information in our website is intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any illness or disease. The content on our website is for educational purposes only.
- REFERENCES:
- 1. “Nutrition Facts and Analysis for Leeks, (bulb and Lower Leaf-portion), Cooked, Boiled, Drained, with Salt.” Self Nutrition Data. Self Nutrition Data, n.d. Web. 22 Feb. 2014.
- 2. “Allyl Sulfides Inhibit Cell Growth of Skin Cancer Cells through Induction of DNA Damage Mediated G2/M Arrest and Apoptosis.” ACS Publications. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 11 May 2010. Web. 22 Feb. 2014.
- 3. “Protective Effects of Kaempferol against Endothelial Damage by an Improvement in Nitric Oxide Production and a Decrease in Asymmetric Dimethylarginine Level.” National Center for Biotechnology Information. European Journal of Pharmacology, 15 Aug. 2009. Web. 22 Feb. 2014.
