12 Health Benefits of Chives
If you think chives are only meant as a garnish on foods, then here is a dose of nutrition facts and health benefits of chives that can make you think different. Chives are used as toppings on food. They impart a distinct flavor and render a fresh greenness to the food. But the benefits of chives do not stop there. Listed here are some health benefits of chives that you must learn about.
1. Assist in weight loss
Extremely low in calories, chives make a wonderful diet food. 100g of fresh chives account for 30 calories but are loaded with antioxidants, fiber, vitamins, calcium and minerals that are each responsible for the upkeep of multiple body parts.
2. Help to lower blood pressure and cholesterol
Just like garlic, chives contain allicin. Allicin is responsible for minimizing blood pressure and bringing down cholesterol production in the body. Further, they also have anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties in them. Eliminating bacteria and fungi in the intestinal tract ensures that your digestive system functions well.
3. Prevent constipation
Chives are rich in dietary fiber and this means they aid digestion perfectly. Fiber builds roughage in the colon and intestines and therefore eliminates chances of constipation greatly.
4. Helps to prevent cancer
Chives are a natural source of flavonoids and sulfur that prevents certain kinds of cancers effectively. They fight against the free radicals and prevent their development. Therefore, cancers of the colon, breast, prostate, lung and stomach are prevented/treated with the consumption of chives.
5. Fight skin problems
Since chives have anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties in them, they are exceptionally good for your skin and skin related infections. Use them in the place of lotions to treat scabs and open wounds. It kills the bacteria and fungus that can develop on these open bruises.
6. Promote healthy bones
There is an abundance of Vitamin K in chives. This vitamin is responsible for the health of your bones. Bone demineralization is considerably prevented with regular consumption of chives. Women especially derive a world of benefits since they are more vulnerable to osteoporosis than men. Increasing bone density is what fresh chives do best and periodic consumption is helpful for the same.
