The Jerusalem artichoke, also known as the sunchoke, is native to North America. Jerusalem artichokes provide essential B vitamins as well as a type of soluble fiber called inulin. The edible part of the Jerusalem artichoke is the tuber, which resembles ginger root and tastes like water chestnut. Jerusalem artichokes can be eaten raw, pickled, or cooked. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture National Nutrient Database, a 1-cup serving of raw, sliced Jerusalem artichoke provides 110 calories and 3 g of protein.
Niacin
Niacin, also known as vitamin B3, is a water soluble vitamin. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture National Nutrient Database, one cup of sliced Jerusalem artichoke contains 1.95 mg of niacin, which is 13.9 percent of the daily recommended amount for women and 12.2 percent for men. You need niacin for energy metabolism, nerve function and the health of hair, skin, eyes and liver. The body also requires niacin for the synthesis of certain hormones.
Folate
Folate, also known as vitamin B9, is a water soluble vitamin necessary for proper development of the nervous system. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture National Nutrient Database, one cup of sliced Jerusalem artichoke has 20 mcg of folate, which is 5 percent of the daily recommended amount of folate for both men and women. Your body needs folate for red blood cell production, DNA synthesis, energy metabolism and for cell growth and repair. Adequate folate intake in women of child-bearing age decreases the incidence of birth defects.
Pantothenic Acid
Pantothenic acid, also called vitamin B5, is a necessary component of various enzymes. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture National Nutrient Database, a 1-cup serving of Jerusalem artichoke provides 0.59 mg of pantothenic acid, which is 11.9 percent of the recommended daily amount of pantothenic acid for both women and men. You need pantothenic acid for red blood cell production, digestive health, energy metabolism and for the function of certain hormones related to stress.
References
- University of Wisconsin-Extension: Alternative Field Crops Manual: Jerusalem Artichoke
- U.S. Department of Agriculture National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference, Release 23: Jerusalem-artichoke
- the Ohio State University Extension: Fact Sheet: Folate (Folacin, Folic Acid)
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Vitamin B3 (Niacin)
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid)
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Vitamin B9 (Folate)
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