Radicchio chicory: Nutrition, benefits and uses

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Radicchio chicory is also known as Cichorium intybus;⁠ this is a chicory with dark red leaves and white veins and is very suitable for those who want to lose weight.

1. Origin and Nutrition of Chicory Radicchio

Radicchio is a type of chicory vegetable that originates from Italy and is often confused with red or purple cabbage. However, it is not difficult to distinguish Radicchio from these vegetables because radicchio has a distinct bitter taste, which is less bitter if cooked.
Radicchio is low in calories but provides several important vitamins and minerals for the body. Especially suitable for people who are overweight - obese.
One serving with 80 grams of raw radicchio contains the following nutrients:
Calories: 20 Protein: 1.2 grams Fat: 0 grams Carbs: 4 grams Fiber: 1 gram Iron: 3% Daily Value (DV) Zinc: 5% of the DV Copper: 30% of the DV Phosphorus: 3% of the DV Potassium: 5% of the DV Vitamin K : 170% DV Vitamin C : 7% DV Vitamin B6 : 3% DV

2. Radicchio's Health Benefits

With many health benefits, Radicchio chicory helps to heal wounds, maintain heart health and manage blood sugar levels.
Today, some studies show that consuming radicchio has many other potential health benefits due to compounds found in plant-based foods, including:

2.1 High in antioxidants

Antioxidants are compounds derived from plants, which help the body eliminate harmful free radicals, neutralize free radicals, and create stability for the body.
The antioxidants in radicchio have benefits for gut health and play an important role in the prevention and treatment of eye diseases, cancer, cardiopulmonary diseases, anti-aging and atherosclerosis. circuit . Many studies show that the antioxidants in radicchio are particularly effective in attacking a common liver cancer cell called Hep-G2. In addition, experts have also found that antioxidants from red chicory can help protect and fight cell damage. It also prevents red blood cells from being destroyed through hemolysis.

2.2 Good for heart health

Plant-based foods like radicchio contain compounds that may reduce the risk of heart disease. Prevents plaque buildup in arteries.
A study done with 47 healthy adults found that those who consumed 1.25 cups (300ml) of chicory root extract beverage daily for 4 weeks had a decrease in systolic blood pressure compared to the group taking placebo.
In addition, compounds found in radicchio may have a number of other health benefits, but more research is needed to determine specific uses and dosages:
Strengthens bones: Radicchio contains a large amount of vitamin K, which helps regulate and promote the accumulation of calcium in your body and supports strong bones Supports blood sugar control May improve digestion.

3. How to choose and store Radicchio lettuce

It is recommended to choose radicchio with deep red leaves and prominent white veins. Avoid plants with bruises, cracks, or tenderness. You can store fresh, unwashed Radicchio chicory in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. To prepare radicchio, cut or remove the outer leaves and wash under cool water before using. Radicchio can be chopped and eaten raw in salads. You can use Radicchio in pizza by dicing it. Using radicchio with sweet or acidic foods aims to reduce the bitterness of radicchio. Radicchio is a vegetable similar to red cabbage but with a more bitter taste. It is a rich source of micronutrients such as zinc, copper and vitamin K.
Reference: healthline.com

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