The Swiss chard has many health benefits, such as combat inflammation; reduce fever; boost the immune system; improve digestion; prevent various types of cancer; ability to regulate blood sugar levels. Also, it can help to strengthen the functioning of the brain; detoxify the body; increase bone strength; prevent heart diseases, and lowers blood pressure.
The Swiss chard is a green leafy vegetable. The scientific name is Beta vulgaris subsp. Cicala and it belongs to the family Chenopodiaceae, The Swiss chard is a common name but in the real-life, people just call it chard. This is closely related to the beets and it has the same scientific classification but the beets are usually cultivated for the roots, while this is cultivated for its leaves. The Swiss chard has been cultivated for many centuries, probably for as long as beets, which go back thousands of years.
Here are some health benefits of Swiss chard:
Contents
Cancer prevention:
It has anti-cancer properties which are due to the huge amounts of antioxidants found in it. Antioxidants can neutralize the free radicals which are the dangerous byproducts of the cellular metabolism which can cause healthy cells to become cancerous. It has significant amounts of quercetin, beta – carotene, kaempferol, zeaxanthin, lutein, zinc, Vitamin C, and Vitamin E. Many of the mentioned nutrients have the ability to prevent different varieties of cancers, especially the colon cancer.
Healthy hair:
It is known that the Swiss chard has high amounts of biotin which is an organic compound that is linked to healthy hair. It can stimulate follicles and it can help to increase the luster and texture.
Eye care:
The Swiss chard has high amounts of beta – carotene which is linked to optimal eye health. It can help to reduce night blindness, glaucoma, macular degeneration, and other vision-related problems.
Blood pressure and heart health:
The Swiss chard has anti-inflammatory properties and phytonutrient antioxidants, along with the potassium, which all of them contribute to reducing blood pressure and stress on the cardiovascular system. The Swiss chard has organic compounds which can help to neutralize hypertension. This is a reason why, it can help you to stay protected from different types of conditions, like strokes, heart attacks, and atherosclerosis.
Blood circulation:
Iron and copper are both essential elements of the red blood cells. If we do not have these minerals in our bodies, then we can develop anemia that is characterized by lack of concentration; stomach disorders; fatigue, and weakness. You should eat Swiss chard because it will ensure that you will have a proper amount of red blood cells and at the same time, it will increase the blood circulation and oxygenation to the essential organs within the body.
Brain booster:
This is rich in potassium and Vitamin K and both of them are found in significant amounts in the brain. They are integral parts of boosting cognitive development and abilities. You should add some Swiss chard in your diet and you will notice that you will feel better about your brain health.
Bone health:
It is known that the leaves of Swiss chard have high amounts of calcium and this means that it is a major boost for bone health. Calcium, magnesium, and Vitamin K found in the Swiss chard can help to stimulate bone growth and development.
Diabetes control:
The Swiss chard has the ability to regulate the blood sugar levels in our bodies. The Swiss chard has syringic acid which has a very unusual ability. It can inhibit the activity of a specific enzyme named alpha-glucosidase. This means that fewer carbs are broken down into simple sugars and this can allow the blood sugar levels in the body to remain stable and prevent the peaks and plunges that are so dangerous for diabetic patients or for people who have increased risk of developing diabetes. This is a reason why you should add Swiss chard in your diet.
