1. Artichoke
If you’re looking to regulate high blood pressure, artichokes, which peak in spring, offer a good source of magnesium. “Magnesium also helps keep muscles running smoothly,” says Jackie Keller, certified wellness coach and author of Cooking, Eating & Living Well. Artichokes are the highest ranked vegetable in total antioxidant capacity per serving, according to a study from researchers at the USDA. It’s also rich in potassium, which helps control heart function and muscle contractions. But that’s not all the vegetable delivers. Artichokes can help improve liver and gallbladder function, says Traci D. Mitchell, C.P.T, who specializes in functional fitness and body-specific diets. The superfood is a great source of fiber and vitamin C, plus it’s fat-free, cholesterol-free, and low in sodium. When picking the produce, look for ones with a deep green color and tightly-closed leaves.
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