Leeks | Superfood of the Month (2024)

FAQs

What do leeks do to your body? ›

Leeks are also a good source of folate, a B-vitamin that's essential for cell growth and development. In addition to vitamins and minerals, leeks are also high in fibre. This can help to keep your digestive system healthy and may reduce the risk of constipation, heart disease, and certain types of cancer.

They also lend men some assistance down below. "Leeks can support sexual functioning and reduce the risk of prostate cancer," says Michael Dansinger, MD, an assistant professor of medicine and an obesity researcher at Tufts-New England Medical Center.

Packed with dietary fibre and prebiotics, leeks play a vital role in supporting a healthy digestive system. The fibre content in leeks promotes regular bowel movements, aiding in the smooth passage of waste and preventing constipation.

Leeks are a good source of prebiotics, and prebiotics are important to gut health. When it comes to maintaining a healthy gut microbiome, we need both prebiotics and probiotics. Prebiotics are the food for probiotics! Probiotics are living microorganisms, so they need to eat.

Leeks also contain potassium while also being low in sodium, which helps to lower blood pressure. Most of the nutrients in leeks are concentrated in the bulb and lower leaf section, with the exception of folate and B6 which are found throughout the greens and bulb.

Avoid leeks with cuts or bruises. The dark green tops of leeks should look fresh. Avoid leeks with yellowing or wilting tops. Choose smaller, younger leeks when you want to eat them uncooked.

Prebiotics. A study last year by the University of Colorado Boulder found that prebiotic fibre, found in foods such as chickpeas, artichokes and leeks, and which feed “good” bacteria in the gut, may improve sleep.

Leeks are sweeter and milder than onions and can be eaten raw. If cooking, wash before steaming, boiling, or pan-frying.

The bioactive ingredients extracted from leeks could effectively provide anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-cancer and other protective effects. They also have a preventive and antihypertensive effect on the cardiovascular system. In addition, they can also produce an anti-microorganism and anti-viral effect.

When leeks are sliced or chopped, they can be used in place of onions or shallots in soups, stews, and casseroles. You can also showcase their subtle, sweet flavor in pasta dishes like our Red Lentil Rotini with Silken Leeks and Shiitakes or Vegan Penne with Artichokes, Leeks, and Lentils.

Are leeks good for lungs? ›

Leeks are an excellent source of vitamin K and a good source of vitamin A and manganese. Vitamin K is essential for bone building and blood clotting. Vitamin A is vital for vision, reproduction and immune system function and plays a significant role in normal functioning of the heart, lungs and kidneys.

Instead, over-the-counter drugs such as polyethylene glycol (Miralax and generic), bisacodyl (Dulcolax laxative tablets and generic), or senna (Ex-Lax, Senokot, and generic) are a far better choice. They tend to work at least as well, often have more evidence for their safety, and are much cheaper.

Leeks contain lutein and zeaxanthin, two substances that protect the eyes. These substances, known as carotenoids, reduce the risk of cataracts and age-related macular degeneration.

Risks of Eating Leeks

People who are sensitive to FODMAPs may experience digestive symptoms, such as bloating, diarrhea, and gas after consuming high-FODMAP foods. People with certain digestive conditions, like Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), are more likely to be intolerant to FODMAPs.

Leeks. One leek has 1.36 mg of iron, so it will get you to 7.6% DV of iron intake. Give the classic potato and leek soup recipe a go, but also try them charred off and stuffed with blue cheese and nuts. Or pair up with mushrooms in an iron-rich Asian style broth, with some greens tossed in for good measure.

Foods to Support a Natural Detox

Leeks have kaempferol, a type of flavonoid, which has anti-inflammatory properties. Add leeks to soups, and salads, or add to garbanzo beans aka chickpeas. Butternut Squash: Butternut squash is a good source of vitamin C and an excellent source of vitamin A.

Leek is richer in some vitamins and minerals compared to onion. In 100 grams of leeks, there are 2.1 g of iron — 10 times more than the amount found in onions. AgroWeb.org data on onions and leeks show that the calcium content of leeks is higher, with the exception of green onions.

Some sulfuric foods can also cause an upset stomach or pressure in the abdomen, including: alliums, such as garlic, leeks, and onions. cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli and cauliflower.