Artichokes are a member of the thistle family and are native to the Mediterranean region. The artichoke plant is a perennial and grows to a height of about four feet. The plant has large, tough leaves and a thick stalk. The edible part of the plant is the bud, which is the flower of the plant. The bud is composed of many small, edible flowers that are surrounded by a series of large, tough leaves.
Artichokes are usually harvested in the fall, but they can be found in supermarkets year-round. When selecting an artichoke, look for one that is heavy for its size and has tight, green leaves. Avoid artichokes that have yellowed leaves or are soft to the touch.
To prepare an artichoke for cooking, start by trimming off the stem. Then, cut the artichoke in half lengthwise and scoop out the fuzzy center, called the choke. Next, simmer the artichoke in boiling water for about 20 minutes. Once cooked, the artichoke can be eaten whole. Some people prefer to remove the outer leaves and eat only the innermost, tender leaves. The heart of the artichoke, located at the base of the bud, is considered the best part.
There are many ways to enjoy artichokes. They can be simply boiled and served with a dipping sauce, such as hollandaise or mayonnaise. Artichokes can also be baked, grilled, or even stewed. When cooked, artichokes are soft and have a mildly nutty flavor.
Whether you are eating artichokes for the first time or are a longtime fan, there is no doubt that they are a unique and delicious vegetable. So next time you are looking for something new to try, don’t forget the artichoke!
What are the side effects of artichokes for dogs?
There are a fewartichoke side effects for dogs to be aware of. While artichokes are not poisonous to dogs, eating too many can lead to stomach upset and diarrhea. Artichokes also contain a small amount of a compound called cynarin, which can cause mild liver damage if consumed in large quantities.
In addition, the sharp spines on artichoke leaves can be a choking hazard for dogs. If your dog does eat an artichoke, watch for signs of stomach distress such as vomiting or diarrhea. If these occur, call your veterinarian for advice.
Generally, it is best to avoid feeding artichokes to dogs. If you do decide to give your dog an artichoke, do so in moderation and be sure to remove the spines from the leaves first.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are artichokes good for dogs with diarrhea?
Yes, feeding artichokes to your dogs as occasional snacks or treats can benefit their digestive health due to their high fiber content. Fiber works by maintaining the balance of good and bad bacteria in their guts, which can help prevent diarrhea.
Are artichokes poisonous to dogs?
Artichokes are not poisonous for dogs — nor are the stems, hearts or leaves. The biggest danger is a potential for a digestive tract blockage. For that reason, artichokes must be prepared for your dog in easy-to-consume portions. There is also a chance as with any human food of diarrhea and/or vomiting.
What are the health benefits of artichokes?
Some preliminary research suggests that artichoke extract may be helpful in treating liver disease. Additionally, these plants seem to offer some health benefits beyond just those Rafinesque described in the 1800s. For example, artichokes: Boost your liver function by supporting the synthesis of functional proteins and peptides Protect against toxic damage to your cells and DNA by inhibiting inflammation and oxidation Reduce inflammation throughout your body by targeting different inflammatory molecules
What are artichoke extract supplements?
Artichoke extract supplements are supplements made from the extract of the leaves and thistle flowers of the artichoke plant. These supplements have been shown to have a number of health benefits, including: Reducing LDL ("bad") cholesterol levels Boosting heart health by reducing cardiovascular risk factors such as atherosclerosis, hypertension, and others Improving cognitive function Helping to prevent cancer or help to treat cancer while it is in its early stages or when it has not spread beyond the original tumor site What types of artichoke extract supplements are available? There are many different types of artichoke extract supplements commercially available on the market today. The most common type is an isolated (non-conjugated) artichoke extract, which contains high levels of luteolin and other bioactive phytonutrients. Other types include standardized extracts (which contain a very specific concentration of each constituent), sustained release capsules, and blends
What should I never feed my dog?
There are many things that should not be fed to a dog or pet, however some of the most dangerous things to feed can include corncobs, green unripe tomatoes, cooked bones, small pieces of raw bone and fatty trimmings/fatty foods. As well, make sure your dog doesn't have access to string wrappings around rolled roasts or absorbent pads found under meat when wrapped on trays.
