Sweet anise aroma and crunchy texture make fennel a wonderful addition to a wide variety of dishes.
It is a true treasure trove of beneficial substances, including vitamins, minerals, and unique phytonutrients.
It is rich in vitamin C, an important antioxidant that helps strengthen the immune system.
Fennel also contains B vitamins, potassium, magnesium, calcium, and iron, which are necessary for maintaining normal body functioning.
Additionally, fennel is rich in antioxidants such as anethole and quercetin, which help reduce inflammation and fight free radicals.
It contains essential oils that help relax the smooth muscles of the gastrointestinal tract, thereby facilitating the digestive process. This makes fennel beneficial for bloating and gas.
Used in culinary as a vegetable, it is also known for its seeds, which are used as a spice.
Nutritional Value
In terms of macronutrients, fennel contains a small amount of protein and fats but has a high level of dietary fiber.
The glycemic index of fennel is low.
One cup (about 87 grams) of sliced fennel contains approximately 3 grams of net carbs.
Also, one cup of sliced fennel contains about 27 calories, providing around 1 gram of protein and less than 0.2 grams of fat.
With its low glycemic index, fennel also contributes to stabilizing blood sugar levels, further emphasizing its usefulness in ketogenic diets.
