Fennel diuretic effect. Fennel: beneficial properties and effect on digestion. Slimming Tea

Bulb of fennel or fennel Foeniculum Vulgare Miller), is a crunchy, slightly sweet product, the addition of which to Mediterranean cuisine brings its own unique refreshing note.

Most often used in Italian recipes, especially during the period of shortage of fresh vegetables: from autumn to early spring.

Fennel is a white or pale green bulb that radiates from closely spaced, fleshy stems. These stems are covered with feathery green leaves that resemble dill greens in appearance.

Bulb, stem, leaves and seeds - all parts of the plant are edible. Fennel belongs to the umbrella family and is considered a close relative of carrots, dill and coriander.

Since ancient times, fennel has managed to acquire a rich history. The ancient Greeks knew this sweet dill under the name "marathron" (literally "marathon"). It grew on the field of a grandiose ancient battle, which was later called the "Battle of Marathon" in honor of this amazing plant. Fennel was also awarded to the runner who delivered the news of the Persian invasion of Sparta to the ruler. And according to Greek myths, knowledge was given to man by the gods from Olympus in a fennel stalk filled with coal. Sweet dill was equally respected by the Greeks and Romans for its beneficial medicinal and culinary properties.

For centuries, fennel has been grown in Europe, especially in areas close to the Mediterranean coast, and also in the Middle East. Today, the United States, France, India and Russia are among the leading producing countries of this healthy vegetable.

Like many of its closest edible relatives, fennel contains its own unique combination of compounds, flavonoids (rutin, quercetin), kaempferol and its various glycosides, which provide the plant with powerful antioxidant properties.

Perhaps the most prominent representative of the phytonutrients in fennel is anethole, the primary component of the essential oil. In animal studies, anethole has been shown to be the best at reducing inflammation and preventing cancer. He was also able to protect the livers of experimental animals from poisonous chemicals. The researchers proposed to the scientific community a biological mechanism that would explain the anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer effects of the substance in question. This mechanism, called tumor necrosis factor (TNF), shuts down an intercellular signaling system responsible for altering potentially powerful genes responsible for tumors and inflammation.
In addition to the list of rare and therefore especially valuable phytonutrients, the fennel bulb is rich in vitamin C, this primary antioxidant that can neutralize free radicals in all water environments of the body. A daily supplement of vitamin C is especially good for those who suffer from osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. Another well-known benefit of this vitamin is in supporting the immune system and its powerful antibacterial properties.
As a very good source of dietary fiber, the fennel bulb helps lower blood cholesterol levels. And since fiber also easily flushes out potentially dangerous toxins from the intestines, this vegetable may be helpful in preventing colon cancer.
In addition to the fiber, sweet dill is high in folate and vitamin B, which are needed to convert the dangerous homocysteine molecule into other, less aggressive molecules. At high concentrations, homocysteine damages the walls of blood vessels and can lead to a heart attack.
Healthy fennel is a good source of potassium, a mineral that lowers blood pressure. Contains manganese, molybdenum, niacin, phosphorus, calcium, magnesium and copper.

What is good for human health

Sweet dill is used in the manufacture of mouth fresheners, toothpastes, antacids (acid neutralizers) and in cooking.

Fennel has many medicinal properties due to essential oils and other biologically active substances in the composition.

Anemia. Iron and histidine (an amino acid found in fennel) are helpful in fighting anemia. Since iron is the main "brick" of hemoglobin, and histidine stimulates its reproduction and helps the formation of other blood elements.
Disorders of the stomach. Chewing fennel seeds after every meal is a common practice, especially for people in the Indian subcontinent. This makes it easier to digest food and prevents bad breath. Some of the components of the essential oils found in fennel are biological stimulants of digestive and gastric juices, reducing gastrointestinal upset and facilitating the absorption of nutrients.
Bloating. Fennel may be helpful for gas and bloating. The secret lies in the carminative properties of the aspartic acid found in this plant. For appropriate medicinal purposes, fennel extract can be used by everyone from infants to the elderly.
Constipation. Powdered fennel seeds can be safely used as a laxative. Its stimulating effect supports the necessary peristaltic movements in the intestines, helping to fight constipation.
Diarrhea. Fennel is useful in treating diarrhea, especially if it is caused by microbial activity. Some components of its essential oils, such as anethole and cineole, have disinfectant properties. Some amino acids, such as histidine, aid in the digestion of food, thereby helping to treat diarrhea caused by indigestion.
Renal colic. Complex polymers are useful in the treatment of renal colic. Such polymers (phytoestrogens) have been found in anethole, the base component of fennel essential oils.
Breathing problems. Fennel can provide significant assistance in the treatment of diseases of the respiratory system, accompanied by a cough, since it contains all the same cineole and anethole, which, in addition to all the advantages already listed, are an excellent and, most importantly, natural expectorant.
Violation of menstruation. Fennel is also useful in easing menstruation and normalizing hormonal levels in women.
Eye diseases. Regular consumption of fennel, thanks to the antioxidants (vitamin C and arginine) and stimulants (essential oils, cobalt and magnesium), protects the eyes from inflammation, age-related diseases and macular degeneration. The juice from fennel leaves can be applied to the eyes to reduce irritation and fatigue.
diuretic property can rightfully be called another useful property of this plant. Eating it increases the amount and frequency of urination, helping to eliminate toxic substances from the body, helping to get rid of rheumatism, bloating and other related problems.
Breastfeeding mothers have fennel increases the production of breast milk.

It also strengthens hair, prevents hair loss, relaxes the nervous system, sharpens memory and has an amazing cooling effect in hot weather. In order to survive the heat, mix a small amount of fennel juice with water, add a little sugar and sea salt.

The impressive list of health benefits of fennel has contributed to its growing popularity among health food aficionados.

What is the harm

But any useful product is good in moderation. The components of fennel essential oils in overdose can be dangerous: they cause breathing problems, heart palpitations and a number of neurotic problems. So don't overdo it!

The fennel tuber has unique properties. It does not look very attractive - as a product of cross-pollination, during which something clearly went wrong. Seeing its strange hairy leaves and large spherical lower part, you will immediately understand why this plant was not paid any attention to before.

However, behind this peculiar appearance are treasures that you just need to discover, and can be used for your own.

Fennel is very nutritious and easy to prepare. Broccoli and cabbage are widely used today for health benefits (not to mention the almighty kale).

Cruciferous plants undoubtedly have a positive effect on health, but they are not always easily tolerated by our digestive system. Fennel, like celery, is very easy for the body to digest. Fennel stalks to some extent even resemble its sister celery.

The tiny fennel seeds are actually the fruit of the plant. Fennel is a perennial herb native to Europe and the Mediterranean.

Due to its cultural heritage and properties that have a beneficial effect on the digestive system, it is especially popular in Greek cuisine. For a long time, fennel seeds have been used as a remedy for constipation and other gastrointestinal ailments.

Fennel belongs to the same plant family as licorice, which explains its deliciously sweet flavor that won't leave you indifferent.

This herb will soothe your stomach. So if you, like many, have not noticed fennel until now, it's time to give this product a second chance.

Five benefits of fennel

They help improve your digestion and overall health:

Reduces bloating

Unlike some vegetables that cause bloating, fennel works in a completely different way. It helps to quickly cope with gases and bloating, as it affects the work of the colon as an antispasmodic. fennel seeds have been used in Greek, Egyptian, Chinese and Indian cultures for their ability to relieve flatulence and other gastrointestinal ailments.

Reduces spasms

Fennel seeds and its tuber can easily cope with stomach cramps. They help to relax the smooth muscles of the digestive tract, which stimulates the flow of bile and reduces the pain associated with digestion.

Prevents the occurrence of colon cancer

Fennel has been shown to remove carcinogens from the digestive tract, which may help prevent colon cancer. Fennel helps to get the job done and is a good source of fiber, as well as helping to lower cholesterol, another factor in colon cancer.

Vitamin C and its anti-inflammatory action

Fennel is high in vitamin C, so it's great for reducing inflammation and also helps boost immunity. How does it affect digestion?

Anethole prevents or stops a molecule known as NF-kappaB, which changes genes and stimulates inflammation, from being activated.

How to use fennel

Fennel is one of the easiest plants to add to your diet. It can be added raw to salads and even raw soups. You can also roast a fennel tuber or cut it into “chunks” and use it in soups, stews, stir-fries, and other dishes. Fennel will impart a sweet, almost musky flavor to food that is somewhat reminiscent of onions, but not as sulfurous.

Fennel pairs well with beets, artichokes, carrots, onions, garlic, and sweet potatoes. Try adding fennel to pasta, soup, or stews. Use these 5 ways to cook with fennel and you'll have tons of new ideas and learn how to cook fall and winter vegetables perfectly.

You can also purchase fennel tea, use the seeds, or even chew them after meals. This will aid digestion and restore stomach health.

If you like juice, feel free to add fennel stalks (greens) or a tuber to your drink.

The juice will become more nutritious and delight you with a delicious aroma. Try adding some fennel with one of these 7 Juicing Recipes!

Give this odd-looking superfood a try today. You never know for sure - you might really like fennel!

Fennel Nutritional Information: For a cup of sliced fennel (cooked or raw), you get: 3g fiber, 1g protein, 0g sugar, 0g fat, and 13 percent of your daily vitamin C requirement.

Source: onegreenplanet.org

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Fennel is an amazing plant whose aromatic properties and benefits were appreciated in antiquity. At first, Rome, and then Egypt, India and China used all its parts up to flowers in cooking and folk treatment recipes developed by Hippocrates and Avicenna. Let's take a closer look at fennel, its beneficial properties and uses!

Fennel and dill: the same or relatives?

Delicate carved leaves of rich green color, a specific refreshing aroma ... This similarity has led many to be seriously convinced that fennel and dill are one and the same. Moreover, among the people, the first plant is usually called dill pharmacy or Volosh. In fact, both of these representatives of the world of flora belong to the umbrella family. This, as well as external similarity, limits their connection with each other.

Useful properties of fennel

If you are interested in fennel, the benefits and harms of this plant deserve a closer look. Experts in the field of medicine and cooking recommend using all parts of this plant. It contains the most complete set of all vitamins necessary for a person: A, B, PP, E and C. In addition, potassium and calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, copper, selenium and zinc, chromium can be found in fennel fruits, leaves and seeds. and aluminum etc.

Do not forget about the optimal ratio of proteins, fats and carbohydrates that distinguishes this plant. On average, 100 grams of greens and fennel roots contains about 30 kcal (with almost zero percent fat). This allows you to successfully use the plant as a component of dietary nutrition. And what ailments does it help fight? Here are the medicinal properties of fennel:

suppression of fungi, microbes and viruses;
prevention of early withering of the body (antioxidant properties);
beneficial effect on the condition of the skin;
cleansing the body (including cholesterol);
providing a mild laxative and diuretic effect on the body;
improvement of the gastrointestinal tract, spleen and liver;
protection of the body from toxic poisoning;
facilitating the passage of gases;
normalization of appetite;
improving lactation and protecting babies from stomach colic;
increasing the level of elasticity of blood vessels and the strength of bone tissue;
stimulation of estrogen production;
increased intensity of expectoration, contributing to the speedy cleansing of the bronchi;
can be used as a mild herbal sedative.

As you can see, the medicinal properties inherent in fennel are very diverse. That is why it is actively used in their practice by doctors of various specialties. It is believed that the use of this plant is effective as a prevention of cancer.

Another amazing property of fennel is the tonic and soothing effect of its juice on the eyes. In folk medicine, this herbal remedy is widely used in the treatment of various types of conjunctivitis and cataracts.

Fennel in cosmetology

Phytoestrogens, fatty oils, fenchol, limonene, a whole complex of vitamins and other substances that are indispensable for our beauty and youth ... All this is present in the plant and makes it possible to actively use it in cosmetology. In particular, experts have proven that the properties of fennel are useful for caring for mature skin. Phytoestrogens are indispensable for eliminating wrinkles and pigmentation disorders, for stimulating cell division and growth, and increasing skin resistance to destructive environmental factors.

Fatty oils and other useful components contained in the plant are very useful for teenagers. Fennel helps them fight age-related problems - a violation of the water-fat balance caused by hormonal surges and the appearance of acne (acne).

Fennel for weight loss

The solution to the problem of excess weight is provided by a combination of a balanced diet, exercise and tea with fennel seeds. Here it acts as an auxiliary agent that increases the intensity of metabolism and improves bowel function.

To prepare a drink, it is enough to mix 2 tsp. seeds with 2 tbsp. l. your favorite green tea. To enhance the tonic effect, 1 lime / lemon is added to the drink, scalded with boiling water and cut along with the peel. All of the listed ingredients are placed in a teapot and poured with boiling water. After 15 minutes, the drink is ready. It has a pronounced diuretic effect; it is best to take it just before a meal.

Since weight loss often leads to sagging and sagging skin, we recommend using cosmetics based on fennel oils along with teas. They provide an excellent tonic, nourishing, smoothing and anti-cellulite effect.

Is fennel harmful?

Any plant, even the most valuable in terms of nutrition and medicinal properties, must be used wisely, not exceeding the dosages recommended by experts. So, if you grow or purchase fennel, the benefits and harms of the plant specifically for you largely depend on the state of health and the chosen consumption rates.

A decoction of the seeds of the plant is used even for infants from 4 months and older. At the same time, doctors scrupulously calculate the dosage of an agent intended to get rid of stomach cramps and spasms. Even in healthy people, unlimited consumption of this medicinal spice can cause the opposite effect of what is desired:

allergic reactions;
disorder of the digestive tract;
pressure drop (which is especially dangerous for hypotensive patients).

The use of fennel is contraindicated in expectant mothers and persons suffering from epileptic seizures. And all because this flavor-aromatic seasoning contains substances that have pronounced antispasmodic properties. Its use is not recommended in cases of individual intolerance, as well as indigestion.

Rules for choosing a good fennel

If in cosmetology mainly oils contained in various parts of the plant are used, then in medicine and cooking all its components are used: leaves, roots, seeds.

How to choose fresh fennel, which has the best taste and medicinal properties? To solve this problem, choose dense, smooth light green root crops, with rich green greens. All parts of this plant should emit a delicate, refreshing aniseed aroma.

The benefits and harms of fennel (or rather, their ratio) largely depend on the correct storage of the spice. To preserve all the properties, it should be kept in the refrigerator, a maximum of 3-5 days.

The use of fennel: traditional medicine recipes

Digestive disorders. Brew 1 tsp. dry seeds of the plant in 1 tbsp. boiling water. Take 200 ml three times a day (preferably before meals).

Colic in children. To prepare the so-called "dill water", you should brew about 3 grams of fennel seeds in a glass of boiling water. Reception rate - up to 2 tsp. several times a day.

lactation disorders. Mix 1 tbsp. l. fennel seeds, oat grass, barley seeds, anise, dill, cumin, hay fenugreek, as well as galega flowers and hop fruits (cones). 2 tbsp. l. the resulting composition is brewed in 0.5 liters. boiling water. Take 1-1.5 liters of the resulting infusion per day.

Cholelithiasis. Brew 3 tsp. ground fennel seeds in 1 tbsp. boiling water. Pour the resulting composition into a thermos and leave to infuse for an hour. Take the strained remedy 4 to 5 times a day, 3 tbsp. l.

Remember that the inherent benefits and harms of fennel largely depend on the accuracy of compliance with the dosage of medicines based on it. Follow your doctor's advice!

Uses of fennel in cooking

In nature, there are 2 varieties of this plant: stem and petiole - with a dense "head" like celery. The dense aerial part of fennel can be stuffed, stewed, baked, combined with white fish, added with ginger to meat dishes.

Fennel seeds and greens perfectly complement the taste and aroma of lamb, turkey and chicken, as well as various soups (both hot and cold), snacks and cereals. The same parts of the plant can be used for pickling and other methods of cooking radish, cabbage, cucumbers. By combining fennel with beans and potatoes, you will not only provide dishes with an original flavor profile, but you will also be able to reduce their inherent gas-producing effect.

Fragrant fruits can be used in baking bakery products. In combination with ginger root plates, they provide a unique flavor to green teas, enhancing their beneficial properties. Fennel is combined even with fresh berries, fruits and yoghurts.

Thus, we have at our disposal many ways to benefit from fennel for our health and beauty.

Nutritionists and trainers assure you that without diets and physical activity, you should not expect the desired numbers on the scales. Alternative medicine experts say that nature always has a lot of secrets in store for maintaining an ideal figure. Connoisseurs of slimming recipes recommend using fennel for weight loss to everyone who wants to get rid of excess weight. This plant is pleasant in taste and aroma, so the path to an ideal body will be easy and tasty.

Is it possible to lose weight with fennel

Don't expect significant weight loss while snuggling fennel tea with a chocolate bar. In this case, supporters of harmony through a healthy lifestyle are absolutely right - if the weight is gained due to overeating, then bad habits will have to be sacrificed on the altar of health and beauty.

The list of "good deeds" that the leaves and fruits of an amazing plant are really capable of is very extensive:

stimulation of metabolism;
removal of toxins from the body;
appetite regulation;
optimization of the liver and pancreas;
positive effect on the absorption of fats and sugar;
preventing the appearance of constipation and flatulence.

These wonderful properties leave no doubt that the advertised plant really helps to lose 2 to 5 kg of excess weight without any harm to health.

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The secret of the mysterious power of the plant

The reason for the complex effect lies in the many useful biologically active compounds contained in the stems, fruits, seeds and bulbs of the plant.

Essential oils, which are more than 6% in fruits, contribute to the gentle removal of toxins from the intestines, and their pleasant aroma and taste help fight sweet addiction. A rich combination of fatty oils (about 18%) allows you to normalize fat metabolism and improve the normal functioning of cell membranes.

Fennel seeds are very useful for weight loss, as the flavonoids they are rich in are natural antioxidants that help to quickly saturate cells with oxygen and actively burn calories. Minerals, vitamins A, B and C replenish the body's need for valuable nutrients, thereby reducing the frequency of signals to the brain about the need to eat.

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How to use for maximum effect

Fennel is often grown in summer cottages and even on window sills, so finding it on sale is not difficult. When choosing, you need to pay attention to plants of a rich green color with a large white bulb.

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Fennel in your daily diet

No need to puzzle over how to use fennel for weight loss, the easiest way is to use its leaves and bulbs fresh.

The sweetish-spicy taste of fennel greens perfectly complements vegetable salads, first and second courses. The best combination is sea fish baked on a pillow of the leaves of this spice. The onion, peeled from coarse leaves, can be finely chopped and mixed with any citrus or fruit - you get a light spicy salad for dinner.

Traditional medicine recommends starting the use of fennel for weight loss with infusions. The raw materials for such drinks - fruits and ready-made fees, can be purchased or prepared independently. To do this, in the fall, dry umbrellas of the plant should be collected, dried in the shade and threshed.

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Fennel tea for slimming

Judging by the reviews of fennel seeds for weight loss, tea from them is an excellent drink that normalizes the state of the whole organism. It is easy to brew, and the taste and aroma will please even the most fastidious gourmet.

To make tea, you need to take 2 tsp. seeds, grind in a blender (or crush in a kitchen mortar) and brew 1 liter of boiling water. Let it brew for a quarter of an hour, strain and drink before meals. Repeat 3-4 times a day

If nettles are added to the fruits of fennel (for 1 teaspoon of seeds - 2 teaspoons of dry nettle), you get a herbal elixir that helps reduce blood sugar. By adding mint, chamomile or linden leaves to it, you can enjoy fragrant tea with amazing taste, which will give you the opportunity to relax and unwind your nervous system.

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Important: contraindications and warnings

Doctors agree that this plant is indicated for weight loss programs. However, they warn that they should not get carried away too much, since infusions and decoctions with fennel have a pronounced diuretic effect. Prolonged uncontrolled use of fennel teas can lead to dehydration and serious problems.

You should also exercise caution and refuse to use fennel for weight loss:

pregnant women, especially at the very beginning of the term;
people with a tendency to loose stools;
patients with diseases of the kidneys and excretory system;
allergy sufferers, epileptics.

If you have any doubts and ailments, you should abandon attempts to independently reduce weight and consult a general practitioner, gastroenterologist or endocrinologist.

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Fennel Diet Smoothie Recipe

Fennel is a perennial herbaceous plant of the celery family, up to 90-200 cm tall. It resembles dill in appearance, closer to anise in taste and aroma, but with a sweeter and more pleasant taste.

Fennel is ordinary and vegetable, the latter has a fleshy trunk. It should be determined very carefully: it can be confused with other, poisonous umbrella! Fennel root is spindle-shaped, fleshy, wrinkled.

Stem with a bluish bloom, straight, branched. Leaves are thrice-, four-pinnate, with long filiform lobules. Small yellow flowers are located on the tops of the stems in the form of flat complex umbrellas. The fruit of fennel is an oblong two-seeded plant, sweet in taste.

Fennel flowers in July-August, bears fruit in September. Fennel is cultivated as a medicinal plant.

Fennel ordinary belongs to ancient medicines. It was widely used by Hippocrates, Dioscorides, Pliny and Avicenna.

Useful properties of fennel

Fennel fruits contain calcium, potassium, magnesium, iron, copper, zinc, chromium and aluminum.

Fennel preparations have antispasmodic and carminative effects, increase the secretory activity of the digestive glands, promoting digestion; act as a mild diuretic and expectorant.

Usually, fennel preparations are prescribed for diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, accompanied by spasms, flatulence, pain in the intestines (spastic colitis and intestinal colic). Especially effective "dill water" for children. Fennel is also used for cholelithiasis and kidney stones, bronchitis and whooping cough, scanty menstruation and sexual infantilism. The internal use of infusion of fruits in combination with external washings is useful for mycoses (fungal skin lesions). The fruits of the plant are part of many carminative, laxative teas and sedatives.

Fennel has an expectorant and disinfectant effect. In folk medicine, a decoction of fennel seeds is washed with eyes for conjunctivitis, skin for pustular diseases, it is also drunk for flatulence, abdominal pain, cough, insomnia, and also to improve the formation of milk in nursing mothers.

Biological action of fennel: carminative, relieves spasms of the gastrointestinal tract, antimicrobial, expectorant, etc.

Seeds - a good remedy for colds, coughs. Many people know "dill water", which is given to children with bloating, accumulation of gases. But not everyone knows that this water has nothing to do with dill and is prepared from fennel. The fact is that the people call fennel a pharmacy dill for its similarity to a garden plant and high medicinal properties.

In Indian medicine, the fruits are used as a stimulant and the roots as a laxative.

Fennel essential oil perfectly cleanses the body and removes toxins, especially for those who are fond of rich food and alcohol. It has a diuretic and mild laxative effect. Influencing the digestive system, eliminates constipation, flatulence, nausea.

In menopause, fennel oil is very effective, as it stimulates the production of its own estrogen. Helps increase lactation. Along with this, fennel has a high antifungal activity. When sanitizing the premises, it reduces the content of fungi in the atmosphere by 4-5 times.

Fennel oil has a hepatoprotective effect in toxic liver damage. Increases appetite, secretion of digestive and bronchial glands. Has a beneficial effect on the skin.

Rinsing the mouth with fennel decoction eliminates sore throat and hoarseness. To use the medicinal properties of fennel, it is ground into powder in the morning, afternoon and evening, each time half a teaspoon is brewed in a small cup of boiling water and sweetened and eaten. This composition helps with flatulence and facilitates digestion.

Fennel leaves are added fresh to salads, fish and meat dishes when stewing. Seeds are put in spicy soups and marinades, various pickles. Fennel sauce is good with cold fish. This plant is most widely used in French and Italian cuisines.

Dangerous properties of fennel

Fennel, like many medicinal herbs, has both beneficial properties and contraindications. First of all, it is worth noting that individual intolerance to grass is possible. If a person feels nausea or dizziness after eating fennel, it is worth abandoning this plant.

Also, despite the ability to increase the flow of milk, fennel is recommended for nursing mothers and pregnant women only on the condition that the benefits outweigh the potential harm. A similar approach is noted when prescribing funds to people who have epileptic seizures.

Overdose or abuse of products based on this plant lead to indigestion and can cause allergic reactions.

In addition, precautions when using fennel must be observed in cases of cardiac arrhythmias. Doctors also note that a large amount of the plant eaten can even cause bleeding.

Remember that in any case, the use of fennel should be started with small doses so that you can notice its negative effects on the body in time.

In this video, Julia Vysotskaya will tell you how to make fennel and celery cream soup.

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