What Are The Health Benefits Of Fresh Fennel?

Fennel is a plant native to the Mediterranean region. The fennel plant is related to parsley, carrots and dill. Its use as a medicinal and culinary ingredient began thousands of years ago. The bulb provides a mild anise flavor to meals. The taste of fennel is particularly complementary when served as a fish accompaniment. Fresh fennel is available from fall until spring.

Vitamin C Source

A 1-cup serving of fennel bulb provides 10.5 mg of vitamin C, or 17 percent of the daily value. Vitamin C is an important nutrient for the production and repair of skin tissue. It forms collagen used for making ligament, tendons and blood vessels. Vitamin C also functions as an antioxidant by protecting blood vessel walls from oxidation that contributes to cardiovascular disease.

Antioxidant Source

Fennel provides a variety of phytochemicals, including anethole, rutin and quercetin, which function as antioxidants. Antioxidants protect and repair damage resulting from excessive levels of free radicals, chemical byproducts of metabolism. The active compound anethole also has a history of use as a digestive treatment. This compound prevents and treats gas and improves upset stomach, according to nutritionist Phyllis A. Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing: A-to-Z Supplement Guide."

Potassium Source

Fennel is a rich source of potassium. One cup of the vegetable provides 360 mg of this mineral, which is approximately 10 percent of the daily value. Potassium is necessary for a variety of cell, tissue and organ functions. It behaves as an electrolyte, facilitating the conduction of electricity through the body. It also provides the chemicals necessary for muscle contraction utilized in cardiovascular and digestive processes.

Fiber Source

A 1-cup serving of fennel provides nearly 3 g of fiber, or about 13 percent of the daily value. Fiber is important for regulating the function of the digestive tract, maintaining healthy cholesterol levels, slowing digestion that balances blood sugar and providing bulk that quells hunger between meals. Including rich fiber sources in the diet is more important now than ever. According to the American Heart Association, the average American consumes only 16 g daily, or 64 percent of the daily value set by the FDA.