Leeks require well-drained fertile soil to thrive and are commonly grown as an annual crop in many parts of Europe and Asia. Farmers can also sow or transplant seedlings that have been cultivated in the field which take about 100-120 days to harvest.
Vitamins and minerals in leeks
Leeks are planted in deep trenches to deprive them of sunlight and their stems turn green (chlorophyll pigmentation) due to photosynthesis. As the plant grows in height the grower gradually fills the trench by pulling up the surrounding ground creating a mound around the stem. This method is also used to obtain long white and sweet stems And turn white instead of green sharp and stinging stems.
The chive plant contains many unique antioxidants minerals and vitamins that have proven health benefits. Chives are moderate in calories. 100 grams of fresh straw has 61 calories. In addition its slender stems provide a lot of soluble and insoluble fiber Easily soluble. Although onion contains relatively less thiosulfonate than garlic; it still contains high amounts of these antioxidant groups such as diallyl disulfide and allyl disulfide.
These compounds are also converted into allicin through an enzymatic reaction when the stems of leeks are broken and cut. The measured total antioxidant activity (ORAC value) of 100 g of chives was (490 TE) (Trulux equivalent). Laboratory studies have also shown that allicin reduces cholesterol formation by inhibiting the enzyme reductase (HMG-CoA) in the body. Hepatocytes; in addition it has been found to have antibacterial antiviral and antifungal activity.
In addition allicin reduces blood vessel stiffness by promoting the release of nitric oxide (NO) into the blood vessel walls resulting in a reduction in total blood pressure. It also prevents platelet clots from forming and has fibrinolytic (clot destruction) effects in blood vessels. Therefore allicin helps reduce the risk Total Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) Peripheral Vascular Disease (PVD) and Stroke.
Leeks are an excellent source of vitamins necessary for optimal health. Its leafy stems already contain many important vitamins such as pyridoxine folic acid niacin riboflavin and thiamine in appropriate proportions. 100 grams of fresh stems provide 64 micrograms of folic acid. Folic acid is also necessary For DNA synthesis and cell division. Adequate levels in the diet during pregnancy can help prevent neural tube defects in newborns.
In addition chives are a good source of vitamin A (1667 IU or 55% of the RDA per 100 grams) and other flavonoid phenolic antioxidants such as carotenoids xanthin and lutein. It also contains some other essential vitamins like vitamin C vitamin K and vitamin E. How does vitamin C help the body? Humans develop resistance to infectious pathogens reducing harmful free radicals and inflammation.
In addition its stems contain small amounts of minerals such as potassium iron calcium magnesium manganese zinc and selenium.
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