Shed some weight with Dandelion

A few days ago I was watching one of my favorite chefs, Alison Roman, making a side dish with sauteed dandelion. While she was chopping the leaves she mentioned that her acupuncturist told her that “Dandelion is good for the blood”. So I started to gather some studies to validate that claim. 

I personally love greens and I believe that they are generally good for the overall health, as they are filled with powerful nutrients and antioxidants, but some, like dandelions, have even more special qualities that make them a good candidate to be a regular in my diet. 

What is dandelion good for? 

Nothing gets wasted about this plant, from the flowers to the leaves, all the way down to its roots; all the components bring some benefits. Alison’s acupuncturist is right: Dandelion does help the blood as it regulates blood sugar levels, improve insulin resistance and keep a healthy heart. 

It’s filled with important vitamins A, C, E, but also potassium, calcium, magnesium, and beta carotene which protects against sun damage and oxidative stress. Dandelion also contains inulin, a probiotic, which, in small quantities, can be good for gut health as it stays in the bowl helping it grow beneficial bacteria, and by supporting a healthy digestive tract, it may also relieve constipation.

Dandelion can lower blood sugar levels and improve insuline resistance.

There are many ways to consume dandelion: you can find it as a tea, capsules, but it can be easily eaten raw providing a good amount of fiber, which is also good for digestion. Its flowers and roots contain polyphenols, which help fight insulin resistance, one of the main issues for those affected by PCOS, improving blood sugar levels, but also reducing inflammation. Thanks to the presence of chicoric and chlorogenic acid dandelion reduces the intake of starch in the system which further contributes to regulating blood sugar levels.

For those who suffer from excess water retention dandelion can help get rid of excess liquid, helping shed that extra weight; and like any potassium-rich foods it can help regulate blood pressure. It may also help with fatty liver, by giving this filtering organ extra help in getting rid of excess stored fat lowering the damage of oxidative stress. 

Lastly, it is beneficial to the skin as it promotes fast cellular regeneration, but also hydration and collagen production. 

If taken as a supplement, always consult your doctor as it may interact with other medications you are taking, such as estrogen-based contraceptives, but also diuretics and more.

Dandelions are pretty bitter so sauteeing them is definitely the best way to eat them, and as long as you do not blanch them, they will retain their minerals and nutrients. I like to saute them with some anchovies and garlic to give them extra flavor but there are many recipes you can easily find online.

And if you are looking to add pre and probiotics to your diet try Semaine Pre and Probiotic supplement.

Try it and let us know what you think!