35 Leek Recipes That Are Healthy & Delicious (Low-Carb, GF Options) (2024)

FAQs

Are leeks anti-inflammatory? ›

Leeks have a variety of biological active effects, such as anti-cancer, anti-inflammation, anti-obesity, anti-oxidation and anti-bacteria, but the action mechanisms of these biological effects are still unclear.

Raw leeks, along with raw garlic and onions, are a source of prebiotics. Prebiotics, a type of fiber, are good for our beneficial gut bacteria. They assist in balancing the bacteria which aids in a healthy digestive system.

Leeks are alliums, a family of vegetables that includes onions and garlic. Several studies link alliums to a lower risk of heart disease and stroke ( 17 ). While most of these studies have tested onions or garlic, leeks contain several beneficial compounds thought to lower inflammation and protect heart health (18).

Leeks are a mild diuretic, and 48 hours or so of leek soup would provide immediate results to jump-start the recasting.

The dark green tops of leeks should look fresh. Avoid leeks with yellowing or wilting tops.

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.

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 may protect against certain types of cancer

Studies suggest that people who regularly eat leeks and other allium vegetables may have up to a 46 percent lower risk of gastric cancer than people who don't eat them, but further studies are needed to be sure. Leeks may also protect you from colorectal cancer.

Gas-producing polysaccharides called fructans are typically found in onion, garlic, agave, and leek. Even when consumed in small quantities, these foods can trigger bloating and other digestive problems like gas and stomach cramps.

With low sodium and no saturated fat or cholesterol, leeks are especially beneficial for diabetics. This is also a rich source of fiber for the patient's daily menu. If you don't eat it directly, but use the juice, the nutrients in leeks will also promote the treatment of diabetes.

Why are leeks so expensive? ›

Leek is an expensive crop to grow, because it is labor intensive. Hand labor is required for all stages of production including: transplanting, weeding, harvesting, washing and packing.

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.

“Leeks are a diet food for French women. We boil them and drink the water,” she says. “They're a magic trick, a little secret.” Employee Julien chimes in: “It's a common drink that helps shed kilos.”

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.

Magical Leek Soup is a broth made from boiling leeks in water. It is a mild diuretic and a secret diet food for French women for generations. The practice, as written by Mireille Guiliano in her book, "French women don't get fat" is to sip the broth throughout the day and eat the boiled leeks as the meal.

Broccoli: Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, arugula and kale are rich in sulforaphane, an antioxidant that helps decrease inflammation. They also contain soluble fiber, which keeps digestion on track.

Leeks are rich in flavonoids, especially one called kaempferol. Flavonoids are antioxidants and may have anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, and anticancer properties, as well as other health benefits. Definite proof of these health benefits of leeks will depend upon future studies with humans.

Studies have shown that people who regularly ate foods from the allium family – such as garlic, onions and leeks – showed fewer signs of early osteoarthritis. Researchers believe the compound diallyl disulphine found in garlic may limit cartilage-damaging enzymes in human cells.

Eggplants, peppers, tomatoes and potatoes are all members of the nightshade family. These vegetables contain the chemical solanine, which some people claim aggravates arthritis pain and inflammation.