>Why you should eat artichokes:
An artichoke is a rich source of Vitamin C, folate, dietary fiber, magnesium and potassium.  It contains phytochemicals which aids in digestion by stimulating bile production, and may help to increase the appetite.
Research has found that the artichoke leaf in extract can reduce cholesterol levels. For circulation, research has found that wild artichokes restored veins and arteries that did not have sufficient flow in them.
In human studies it has also been found that artichokes can help with Irritable Bowl Syndrome and dyspepsia ( pain in the mid-abdominal region).
A Family Recipe:
My mom cooked fresh artichokes at least once a week. Here is her recipe
2 large artichokes (pick them for firmness and a nice green color.)
Clean them by running under cool water, opening the leaves to rinse throughout.
We then stuffed them with a bread stuffing.
Ingredients:  1 cup bread crumbs, I use whole wheat bread crumbs that are Italian seasoned.
Mix the cup of breadcrumbs with 1/4 cup almond milk or regular cows milk. Chopped 2 cloves of garlic and add to mixture.
Stir until a thick consistency, if too watery add more crumbs, if too thick add more milk. It should be think enough to be able to place the stuffing in between the leaves. When completed drizzle olive oil over the artichokes and steam for 1/2 hour or until you test a leave by pulling one out and testing it texture. When done the leave should pull out easily.