“Yard Weed” Has Major Health Benefits
If you’ve ever fought the dandelion battle, you’re in good company.
Whether you spray them with dangerous chemicals or dig them out by the roots, these pesky yellow weeds still come back year after year after year.
But instead of throwing your hands up in frustration this summer, try throwing your arms open wide and welcome dandelions into your yard, your refrigerator, and your medicine cabinet.
Why?
Because these pesky weeds are actually one of the HEALTHIEST foods on the planet.
In one study, researchers ranked the most nutritious foods based on their association with reducing chronic disease and on their specific nutrient content.
Out of the top 41 foods, dandelions ranked as #16! That means it out-nutriented kale and broccoli!
In fact, compared to spinach, dandelion leaves have…
- TWICE the calcium,
- THREE times more vitamin A,
- FIVE times more vitamin K and E, and
- EIGHT times more antioxidants!
If any food deserves to be called a superfood, dandelions fit the bill.
So, it’s no wonder, then, that studies have shown that compounds in dandelions have major health benefits, including:
- Helping reduce blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity
- Decreasing triglyceride levels
- Decreasing blood pressure in people with elevated levels
- Protecting against liver damage
- Treating constipation and improving digestive health
- Fighting infections
- Suppressing the growth and spread of cancer cells
There are plenty of supplements and teas on the market that can help you take advantage of all the health benefits dandelions have to offer.
But since it’s the middle of summer, why not save yourself some money and get them from your back yard?
SOURCE:
Link, R. “13 Emerging Health Benefits of Dandelion.” Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/dandelion-benefits