The Endive, a Summer Diet Staple

The endive is a light and nourishing leaf vegetable with many special qualities that aid the human body in incredible ways. Its nutty flavor and pleasant, mild bitterness make it the perfect low-calorie ingredient for fresh summer salads. Here are some of its main benefits:

Supports Your Diet

An average weighs 150 g, and with about 20.8 kilocalories per 10 g, it’s difficult to find a lighter food. Endives also consist of 95% water, and provide beneficial fibers and potassium. They’re the ultimate diet-friendly vegetable!

Promotes Healthy Skin

This vegetable is zinc and copper-rich, and boasts anti-acne micro-nutrients and group B vitamins, which help fix little flaws in the skin. Moreover, through their vitamin C supply, they help prevent cell aging and promote collagen synthesis. Finally, by stimulating the synthesis of melanin, the endive’s beta-carotene content helps prepare the skin for sun exposure.

Provides Post-Exercise Nutrients

As physical activity increases in the summertime, endives serve as helpful sources of potassium, calcium, and magnesium, which aid in muscle recovery. Endives help the body compensate for the deficiencies incurred by working out.

Helps Prevent Disease

Endives are rich in antioxidants and insulin, a type of dietary fiber that lowers blood sugar levels by slowing down digestion, helping to prevent diabetes. Their high fiber content also lowers bad cholesterol by reducing the body’s absorption of harmful fats from other foods. Endive polyphenols help to keep the blood vessels and arteries flexible, both important for a well-functioning vascular system. To top it off, they are also a great source of vitamin B9, which helps combat high blood pressure.

If you’re looking to incorporate endive into your diet but don’t know where to start, try making this French Endive Salad your summer go-to!