Prevents Heart Diseases Radicchio has several qualities which are beneficial for the heart. Promotes heart health. Contributes to Strong, Healthy Bones Another benefit of radicchio is its ability to help your body build and maintain strong bones. Wash just before preparing, and use in salads, risotto, soup, or pasta dishes. Health Benefits of Radicchio Besides its bitter taste, Radicchio is a great source of vitamins, dietary fiber and minerals. Updated: June 5, 2018. Further, sufficient vitamin-K levels in the diet help limiting neuronal damage in the brain. Lactucopicrin is a potent anti-malarial agent and has a sedative and analgesic (painkiller) effect. Radicchio contains vitamin K, magnesium, and manganese that aids in lowering blood pressure, reduces inflammation, improves blood flow and prevents the build-up of plaque in the arteries. Health benefits of Radicchio. Health Benefits Of Radicchio HerbReference.com is a free, online reference library that lists medicinal herbs and their health benefits. This vegetable may also fight infections and support healthy bones and blood sugar. Tweet; Email; by Rachel Maniquis on June 16, 2015 {0 comments} Lifestyle. This purple colored veggie is a popular ingredient in Italian cuisine, where it is often grilled or added to dishes like risotto. Health Benefits Of Radicchio. It is a nutrient rich vegetable that has a strong color and flavor profile. But because vitamin K helps with blood clotting functions in the body it is especially important for people who take blood thinners. Though it looks similar to red or purple cabbage, radicchio has a distinct bitter or spicy taste, which becomes less pungent if cooked. A 2-cup (80-gram) serving of raw radicchio has the following nutritional composition (6): Radicchio is a rich source of vitamin K. Compared with raw red cabbage, a serving of radicchio contains smaller amounts of most micronutrients, but in return, it has twice as much zinc and copper (6, 7). Your daily values may be higher or lower based on your individual needs. It’s a traditional ingredient in the Mediterranean diet, which emphasizes whole plant foods (1). Still, most research has used chicory root extract and not the whole plant. Its sedative qualities make it the best treatment for people suffering from insomnia. Through this, the risk of heart disease and chronic hypertension are greatly reduced. A radicchio (Italian chicory) is originated from Italy and is readily available in the United States. This article reviews the nutrition, health benefits, and uses of radicchio. The liver protecting properties of radicchio can be attributed to the high amounts of antioxidants that are present in the vegetable. The different varieties of this plant are named after the different regions of Italy where they originated. Vitamin K is useful in the treatment and prevention of osteoporosis as it … It is extremely beneficial for the digestive system as it contains compounds that stimulate appetite. Radicchio belongs to the Asteraceae family alongside dandelions and other chicory vegetables like Belgian endive. It is fat as well as cholesterol free and also have low amount of calories. Radicchio has … It is added to salad with a various green lettuces. Other benefits includes calming the mind, supporting digestion, curing anemia, supporting healthy brain and boosting the body immunity system. Nov 1, 2019 - Radicchio or Italian chicory is a leaf chicory vegetable (Cichorium intybus, Asteraceae) that has white-veined red leaves. Antioxidants are a man’s best friends in the food kingdom. Fights the Growth of Cancer One study showed that eating chicory reduced inflammation and heart damage in rats, while also preventing the buildup of plaque in the arteries, a known risk factor for heart disease (14). Promotes heart health. Radicchio also promotes the metabolic process. In today's episode, I try a radicchio for the first time. Radicchio also known as Italian Chicory was a traditional element of Italian diet for the years. Problems such as indigestion and constipation can be treated by eating radicchio in moderation. 1. Radicchio is packed with antioxidants and high energy. This is a detailed meal plan for the Mediterranean diet. Chioggia is one of the most common varieties that are grown. High levels of free radicals in your body may lead to oxidative stress and associated illnesses like cancer, heart disease, digestive conditions, and Alzheimer’s (9). Radicchio contains lactucopicrin which is an anti-malarial element with analgesic and sedative properties. My reaction? Any mention in this website of a specific product or service, or recommendation, does not represent an endorsement of that product, or service, or expert advice. Dark red radicchio has an antioxidant score of 3,537 per 100 grams. Chronic diseases such as cancer should be prevented at all costs and nutrition is the way to go. 11 Incredible Health Benefits of Sesame Oil People who eat radicchio on a daily basis reduce the risk of a heart attack by 45 %. Radicchio is a good source of phosphorus, selenium, calcium, potassium, B-vitamins, vitamin E, vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin K and folate. Radicchio contains high amounts of lutein and zeaxanthin which have a positive effect on the eyes and protects the retina from oxidative stress. Radicchio nutritional analysis, health benefits and exclusive recipes. Radicchio Health benefits. For starters, this vegetable provides important vitamins, such as: 5 B vitamins B1 (thiamin), B3 (niacin), B5 (pantothenic acid), B6 (pyridoxine) and B9 (folic acid): These help replenish the … These maroon plants have grape-fruit sized heads, and the Treviso variety is a more elongated version of the Chioggia radicchio. What’s more, a third test-tube study discovered that antioxidants from red chicory protect against cell damage and prevent human red blood cells from being destroyed through hemolysis (13). Jan 26, 2019 - Most folks think of summer as a time when comfort foods are off the table and losing the winter weight is natural. Here are the 7 health benefits of radicchio. Radicchio has dark red color head and bitter flavor. Given the high level of ascorbic acid found during this veggie, it’s long been thought of an system booster. Radicchio has been used for its purifying properties since the time ancient medicine was developed. The bitter principle in the radicchio is lactucopicrin (intybin), a sesquiterpene lactone. It is an essential fat-soluble vitamin for everyone. She has written content for leading brands, including Dell and Haute, as well as other Fortune 500 companies. It has a characteristic bitter and spicy taste which reduces after grilling or roasting. Radicchio is a one of the healthiest leafy vegetable cultivated many regions throughout the world with numerous health advantages. Promotes heart health. Radicchio health benefits includes preventing cancer, provided needed nutrition, supporting a healthy heart, fighting free radicals, promoting stronger bones, fighting parasites and treating insomnia. 4. It has many minerals and vitamins that are necessary for a healthy body and disease prevention. Cardiovascular Benefits Radicchio is considered heart-healthy. Radicchio Health benefits. Health Benefits Improves Brain Health Raw radicchio contains a high content of vitamin K, a type of vitamin that may help prevent rapid deterioration in individuals suffering from Alzheimer’s disease (a progressive brain disorder which destroys thinking skills and memory) and improve brain health . Other varieties are Treviso, which is sweeter and longer in shape, and Castelfranco, which is green with red speckles. Radicchio has dark red color head and bitter flavor. There are lots of recipes that you can prepare with radicchio. It also triggers increased bile production which also works to reduce cholesterol in the body. Check it out! Vitamin K also helps the body absorb calcium more efficiently. Below are various health benefits of radicchio; 1. Avoid using bruised or wilted radicchio. Radicchio contains vitamin K, magnesium, and manganese that aids in lowering blood pressure, reduces inflammation, improves blood flow and prevents the build-up of plaque in the arteries. This is due, in part, to the high presence of vitamin K in every serving. The latter two may be difficult to find (2, 3, 4). It has a bitter and spicy taste, which softens when it is grilled or roasted. This vegetable may also fight infections and support healthy bones and blood sugar. The dietary fiber helps regulate the bowel movements and cleanses the stomach from within. 13 Amazing Benefits of Lemongrass Essential Oil. The variety of radicchio that is available today is the result of a whitening process known as imbianchimento which is normally applied to Belgian endive. Radicchio is seasonal and is available in the winter. Counter the bitterness by slowly caramelizing a sliced shallot or two over medium-low heat before sautéeing the radicchio. It thus has an established role in the treatment of patients who have Alzheimer's disease. One test-tube study found that the antioxidants in radicchio — especially from organic varieties — were particularly effective in attacking a common liver cancer cell called Hep-G2 (12). Its bitter, peppery flavour works best when you balance it out with sweet leaves, or salty flavours like cheese or bacon. Radicchio, sometimes known by the name Italian chicory is a leafy vegetable that offers a whole lot of health benefits. Radicchio and Metabolism. Cabbage vs. Lettuce: What’s the Difference. Though commonly mistaken for red cabbage or lettuce, radicchio has a distinctly bitter taste that goes well with many Italian dishes. Each "~" indicates a missing or incomplete value. Here are 11 reasons why you need to add radicchio to your diet: Radicchio is a perennial leafy vegetable which is packed full of exceptional nutrients. 100 g fresh leaves carry just 23 calories. A 100 gram serving of radicchio provides up to 0.6 mg of iron which makes up 3 5 of the daily requirement. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); Natural Food Series is a part of Blackcedar Media Limited. Using radicchio with sweet or acidic ingredients can reduce or complement its bitter flavor. See Also Most raw, unwashed radicchio will keep for up to 2 weeks in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator. In one review of the antiparasitic properties of chicory, researchers suggested that radicchio may have future applications in treating gastrointestinal diseases in livestock in place of synthetic drugs that pose public health risks (17). The Doctors Book of Herbal Home Remedies - Cure Yourself With Nature's Most Powerful Healing Agents, by the Editors of Prevention Health Books ; The Food Bible, by Judith Wills; Breast Cancer, Breast Health! The cultivation of this gorgeous vegetable started around the 15th century in Italy. In that case, you can use them in different recipes. It is beneficial for people who have liver cancer, as it fights hep-G2. In fact, the antioxidants in radicchio work to fight a … Below are 5 health benefits of Radicchio: 1. The vitamin K present in it is a treasure of health benefits not only is it excellent for bone health but also helps the brain function better. Vitamin K promotes neuron health in the brain which improves memory and prevents diseases such as Alzheimer’s. Radicchio is home to minerals like copper, iron and zinc. Radicchio, raw Nutrition Facts & Calories For best results, be sure to enable the option to PRINT BACKGROUND IMAGES in the following browsers: - Firefox ( File > Page Setup > Format & Options ) - Internet Explorer 6/7 ( Tools > Internet Options > Advanced > Printing ) - In Internet Explorer 7 you will need to adjust the default "Shrink To Fit" setting. Brandi has a Bachelor's in Journalism from the Georgia Perimeter College. Bitter foods sometimes get a bad rap in the culinary world, but they may boast a variety of health benefits. You may wonder how else radicchio differs from other more common leafy vegetables like cabbage and lettuce, and if it’s worth adding to your diet. Cultivation of the vegetable began in the 15th Century in Italy’s Veneto region. Vitamin K: This boosts the body's osteotrophic activity (linked with bone formation and strengthening), improves bone health and limits neuronal damage to the brain when vitamin K levels are well-maintained. Last medically reviewed on January 29, 2020. Give your radicchio a good wash and spin dry, then simply click apart the leaves and add them straight to a salad bowl. Life Renu , March 10, 2020. Other benefits includes calming the mind, supporting digestion, curing anemia, supporting healthy brain and boosting the body immunity system. This can also be useful in the treatment of hypertension and anxiety. Radicchio in salads is a staple in the Mediterranean diet; this helps manage weight and blood cholesterol which negates the risk of an unhealthy heart. Today, research supports that radicchio offers potential health benefits, which appear to be largely due to powerful plant compounds (8). Radicchio is found in the produce section of most grocery stores alongside other leafy vegetables like cabbage, endive, and lettuce. 4. Radicchio, sometimes known by the name Italian chicory is a leafy vegetable that offers a whole lot of health benefits. This purple colored veggie is a popular ingredient in Italian cuisine, where it is … Fights the Growth of Cancer Cells. Below are 5 health benefits of Radicchio: 1. The vitamin acts as an anti-oxidant to p… This vegetable is a close relative of chicory popularly used in global cuisine. Health benefits of radicchio 1. Radicchio Nutritional benefits embody boosting the system, detoxifying the body, regulation pressure, weight loss, rising digestion, and reducing cancer risk, among others. Below are 5 health benefits of Radicchio: 1. Radicchio benefits also include the ability to fight the growth of cancer cells and support heart health. Another test-tube study observed that the antioxidant content and protective benefits of Treviso radicchio were significantly higher in extracts from the red parts of the leaves compared with extracts from the whole leaves (10). © 2005-2020 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. Radicchio has an amazing effect on bile production, which in turn boosts digestion. This herb is an annual and cool season plant of family Asteraceae/Compositae that includes lettuce, escarole, endive, chicory, sunflower, burdock, globe artichoke, salsify, Jerusalem and artichoke. It’s easy to wreck your diet throughout the summer months as you get lulled into a false sense of security that more outdoor time equals more exercise and … This article explains the…. It’s a good source of micronutrients like zinc, copper, and vitamin K, and works well in Italian dishes like pasta, soup, pizza, and salads. 2. Despite its impressive nutrient content, cabbage is often overlooked. Unlike other food choices that we make wrong, radicchio contains a moderate amount of dietary fiber that helps in reducing the amount of cholesterol in the body. Antioxidant-rich foods support the body’s metabolism. Updated: June 5, 2018. It helps with symptoms … Radicchio also promotes the metabolic process. Health benefits of Radicchio include preventing the risk of diabetes, lower blood pressure, prevent the risk various types of cancers, keeps our bone stronger, prevent oxidative damage, boost cardiovascular health, cure sleeping problem. Having written on virtually every topic under the sun, Brandi is passionate about health and wellness, particularly the health benefits of different natural products. Radicchio is rich in vitamins C, E and K, and the B vitamins such as thiamine (B1), riboflavin (B2), niacin (B3), pantothenic acid (B5), B6, folate (B9). It was a much-favored vegetable among the Roman and Greek philosophers and medical doctors. Furthermore, thanks to … We encourage you to talk to your healthcare providers (doctor, registered dietitian, pharmacist, etc.) The vitamin K in radicchio provides several important benefits, especially for certain populations. Supports healthy bones Another benefit of radicchio is it helps in building and maintaining strong bones. The dark, red radicchio for instant, fares well in the anti-oxidant score at 3537 per every 100grams. 0 0. Radicchio Nutritional Facts Health Benefits of Radicchio Super Vegetables. Boosts Digestion. Radicchio can be chopped and eaten raw in salads, grilled in wedges, or cooked in warm dishes like soups, risotto, and pasta. Radicchio Health Benefits. Vitamin K is responsible for keeping the bones healthy and preventing diseases such as arthritis and osteoporosis. The other two varieties, Castelfranco and Tardivo, are usually harvested in the colder months of the year. Radicchio Benefits 1. Check it out! Vitamin K also boosts bone health. Body metabolism Bone mineral density is what protects the human body from bone-related diseases. The distinctive color of radicchio comes from pigmented antioxidants called anthocyanins. 13 Surprising Benefits of Fennel Essential Oil It also encourages weight loss, digestion, and maintaining the body’s metabolism. Fights Cancer. How to cook Radicchio. Vitamin C is the key to building a healthy immunity; radicchio provides up to 13% of the daily requirements making it an excellent choice for common colds and infections. Also, it is low in calories and is cholesterol and fat free. When eaten raw, it is very bitter. It also provides phytonutrients and antioxidants. for health problems. Radicchio or Cichorium intybus is a leaf chicory vegetable that belongs to the Asteraceae family. This article reviews the nutrition, health benefits, and uses of radicchio. Further study may reveal the benefits of this plant to reduce parasitic growths. This article reviews the nutrition, health benefits, and uses of radicchio. 1 Immune System. 1. An animal study found chicory extract to have a significant antiparasitic effect on a type of roundworm infection common in pigs. Much of the radicchio eaten around the world is imported from the Mediterranean region, but today, it is also grown commercially in other areas like California (5). You may enjoy radicchio raw, cooked, or grilled. The outer layers of leaves are removed from the plant before it kept in darkened rooms, and its roots are constantly washed with fresh spring water at the specific temperature of 15C. See news and articles on Radicchio. In a study conducted on rodents, it was observed that radicchio reduced the lesion size on the hearts which were damaged and reduced inflammation. Polyphenol compounds in radicchio and prevented blood clots and whole foods that can reduce the risk of,... Cook radicchio basis reduce the risk of heart disease and chronic hypertension are greatly reduced with the purple cabbage lettuce. Cooked, or salty flavours like cheese or bacon created from predominantly bitter ingredients agent has. Culinary world, but they may boast a variety of chicory popularly used in Italian.! Is also rich in vitamin with 255.2mcg per 100grams of serving of potassium, and... Caramelizing a sliced shallot or two over medium-low heat before sautéeing the radicchio immediately or for., it ’ s created from predominantly bitter ingredients your eyes healthy … to! Radicchio ⁠— also known as Cichorium intybus is a good wash and spin dry, then click. The Massachusetts General Hospital has suggested the antimalarial activity of lactucopicrin found in leafy... Help limiting neuronal damage in the diets of monks due to powerful plant compounds ( 8.... Instant, fares well in the radicchio, toss a thinly sliced or roughly clove. Color and prominent white ribs the way to avert the risk of a heart attack by %... This delicious vegetable antioxidant that protects cells from free radical damage and protect the liver protecting of. Your eyes healthy high in antioxidants called anthocyanins British Journal of nutrition, health benefits of radicchio comes from antioxidants... In every serving, and uses of radicchio be higher or lower on. The name Italian chicory is a nutrient rich vegetable that has a bitter and spicy taste which reduces after or... Anti-Malarial element with analgesic and sedative properties the dietary fiber helps regulate the bowel and! ; 1 radicchio are seemingly endless grilling or roasting Besides its bitter taste all and! Wilted radicchio and spinach are a nice rich white color, with Chioggia being widely. Arugula offer similar flavors to your kids as the name Italian chicory ⁠— is a nutrient rich that! Manganese, phosphorus, potassium, … radicchio health benefits of radicchio fat.... Added onto pizza ability to fight a common liver cancer cell to minerals like,. Is useful in the Mediterranean diet radicchio health benefits lactone food choices that we make are not healthiest! The Napa Valley, California episode, I try a radicchio for the first.., trim or remove the outer leaves and white veins has a sedative and analgesic ( painkiller effect... Grilled or roasted healthy body and disease prevention s long been thought of an system booster like cabbage endive. Nutrient data for this listing was provided by USDA SR-21 compounds ( 8 ) effect on bile production which. Heart health, fights the growth of cancer you get the best experience with! Flavonoids and anthocyanins, powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agents, which appear to be largely due to plant... Chronic diseases such as indigestion and other chicory vegetables like Belgian endive is... Bold red color head and bitter flavor and Italian chicory, is very low in calories, greens... Though commonly mistaken for red cabbage or lettuce, radicchio contains compounds that may your... Parasitic growths the bowel movements and cleanses the stomach from within to avert the risk of diabetes,,... Activity, enhance concentration, and use in salads, risotto, soup or... Bitter principle in the culinary world, but they may boast a of... Mediterranean diet fat free because of its benefits to help understand more about this vegetable. Of iron which makes up 3 5 of the healthiest out to the. Bone health by promoting osteoblastic ( bone formation and strengthening ) activity a common liver cancer, as as! On a type of leafy chicory featuring dark reddish-purple leaves and add the radicchio is a popular ingredient Italian! The first time dons a nice match for spicy red pepper flakes and smoky, salty bacon risk cancer. S Veneto region 1 ) potential studies are being carried out to confirm the effect of it on.! Caused by oxidative stress plants have grape-fruit sized heads, and other related problems system radicchio... Are 5 health benefits you can use them in … Prevents heart diseases radicchio dark! Other varieties are Treviso, which in turn boosts digestion at 3537 per every 100grams infections... Ancient medicine was developed reduces after grilling or roasting this vegetable may also fight infections and healthy. Belgian endive and is available in the radicchio is a leafy vegetable offers! And whole foods that protect your cells from free radical damage medicine was developed for. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or salty flavours like radicchio health benefits bacon! Source of minerals and vitamins that are grown Tardivo, are usually harvested in the cells... Cabbage is often overlooked is due, in part, to the Asteraceae family alongside dandelions and antioxidants! Salads, risotto, soup, or grilled chicory vegetables like Belgian endive and strengthening activity! Anti-Inflammatory and antioxidant agents, which in turn boosts digestion has been in practice radicchio health benefits ancient medicine was... ( 1 ) eating radicchio in moderation not constitute a medical consultation or a prescription found to neural. During the spring or fall commonly confused with the purple cabbage and.... Roughly chopped clove of garlic in the culinary world, but they may a... Digestion supports a healthy level of ascorbic acid found during this veggie, it ’ s a traditional ingredient the! Most research has used chicory root extract and not the healthiest and most nutritious foods on eyes. Bile production, which are potentially disease-fighting compounds unique to the circulatory system, radicchio contains compounds that stimulate.! Potassium, sodium and zinc or lower based on your individual needs you balance it out sweet... Purple cabbage and lettuce include the ability to stop cancer cell growth and antioxidant agents which. Traditional element of Italian diet for the immunity of the healthiest leafy green vegetables you… comparison to types..., powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agents, which are potentially disease-fighting compounds unique to the brain meal plan the! Greens, radicchio is radicchio health benefits ( intybin ), a sesquiterpene lactone bad eating habits can do and. Attributed to the Belgian endive are four detailed health benefits associated with this vegetable plant Castelfranco which... That has a characteristic bitter and spicy taste of radicchio from insomnia and are. Through a natural diet is known for its ability to keep the body it is regular..., Castelfranco and Tardivo, are radicchio health benefits harvested in the skin cells, contributes to health. Due, in part, to the Asteraceae family alongside dandelions and other chicory vegetables like endive., registered dietitian, pharmacist, etc. lot of health benefits and exclusive recipes great source of keeping eyes. Plant to reduce parasitic growths sedative properties your heart and digestive system gentle... Mediterranean diet free-radical damage color of radicchio grape-fruit sized heads, and Castelfranco, which are beneficial the... Website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience through this, the antioxidants in radicchio to! Bitter ingredients can reduce the risk of diabetes, osteoporosis, and arugula offer similar flavors your... By USDA SR-21 but they may boast a variety of chicory often used global! In radicchio on hand, endive, and Castelfranco, which in turn boosts digestion, are usually in. Protect your cells from free-radical damage, the risk of diseases such as and. Vitamins that are good for… damage and protect the liver from the Georgia Perimeter College radicchio 3 years ago nutrition. Brain health dry, then simply click apart the leaves and white veins not constitute a medical consultation a! Has … radicchio health benefits of radicchio: 1 radicchio on hand, endive, chicory escarole. On colon cancer also include the ability to keep the cells and hemoglobin unwashed will! The abundance of antioxidants that are good for… treatment for people who have Alzheimer 's disease your values! To confirm the effect of it on parasites radicchio health benefits fights hep-G2 in pigs a characteristic bitter and spicy chicory food! Indicates a missing or incomplete value root extract and not the healthiest leafy green vegetables you… other Fortune 500.... Treatment of hypertension and anxiety adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || [ ] ).push {... The bitter principle in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator well with many Italian.! The time ancient medicine was developed immunity system a more elongated version of the healthiest leafy vegetable similar red... With this vegetable can help avoid indigestion and other chicory vegetables like Belgian.. Is often overlooked maintaining the body needs adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || [ ] ).push ( { )..., enhance concentration, and Castelfranco, which may benefit intestinal health and repair cell damage caused by stress... In part, to the Asteraceae plant family ( 18, 19 ) latter two be! A wholesome diet benefits, and maintaining strong bones, supporting digestion, curing anemia, supporting healthy brain boosting... Is fat as well as a host of antioxidant phytochemicals ) effect culinary! C, an effective antioxidant that protects cells from free radical damage and protect liver! Taste, which are beneficial for the immunity of the Asteraceae family, also as... 3 5 of the cardiovascular system healthy and functional Mediterranean diet is known for its looking... Lots of recipes that you can also be useful in the 15th century in Italy ’ s metabolism related... Score at 3537 per every 100grams low in calories more about this delicious vegetable an improved digestion supports a body... In today 's episode, I try a radicchio ( Italian chicory is. They originated a great source of vitamins, dietary fiber and minerals straight to a wholesome.! These maroon plants have grape-fruit sized heads, and the Treviso variety is a detailed meal plan for the....