Jerusalem artichokes Sweet tubers with dietary value

Jerusalem artichoke: The miracle cure of naturopathy

Jerusalem artichokes, also referred to as earth pear, sugar potato or tuber, originally came from North America and was widely used in Germany from the 17th century until it was displaced by the potato. Always appreciated by organic farmers and representatives of naturopathy, Jerusalem artichoke has become more and more in the focus of attention of (medical) public in recent years due to its nutritional properties. In particular, inulin contained in the tuber plays an important role in the treatment of obesity and diabetes.

The botanical name "Helianthus tuberosus" reveals its relationship with the sunflower, although Jerusalem artichoke looks more like the potato on the outside and in its use. Both are similar in their demands on the growing conditions, where the sweet tuber -like frugal as the potato-is to cultivate on barren soil over a large area.

A dietary ideal food with high nutrient and inulin content
The best way to taste the plant in the spring. To use are already the first sprouts and green leaves, which can be processed into delicious vegetable meals. The tuber can be eaten raw or cooked, the taste is described as sweetish-nutty and compared with carrots or salsify.

The tuber contains a lot of basic minerals and vitamin C, but is very low in calories. These properties alone make them ideal substitutes for overweight and diabetics. More important, however, in this context is the high content of inulin. Inulin is a multiple sugar derived from beneficial bacteria in the intestine, e.g. the lactobacilli, is decomposed into fructose and passes through the intestinal mucosa only slowly into the blood. This prevents blood sugar fluctuations, which put a heavy strain on the pancreas and also causes unwanted hunger cravings for sweets, which the overweight suffer all too often.

However, the enzymatic degradation of inulin also lowers the ph value in the intestine, so that at the same time a false colonization of the intestinal flora is prevented. In addition to a healthy digestive function, this results in improved intake of important minerals such as calcium, magnesium and iron. Furthermore, inulin is able to regulate the removal of excess fluids in and out of the cells, which can then be eliminated soon thanks to the simultaneously stimulating effect on kidney activity.

Jerusalem artichoke as a natural appetite suppressant
After all, Jerusalem artichokes can help you lose weight by reducing your cravings for sweets. This happens (as already described) via the stabilization of the blood sugar level. In addition, the natural sweetness of the tuber satisfies cravings and quickly leads to a long-lasting sense of satiety. However, it should be noted that over all benefits, over-consumption can lead to gas formation and diarrhea. For use as a dietary supplement or as a natural appetite suppressant in the context of weight loss Helianthus tuberosus is offered as capsules, tinctures and in homeopathic preparation. (Dipl.Päd. Jeanette Viñals Stein, non-medical practitioner)

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