The list of most bitter foods includes many leafy greens, some bitter fruits that are generally less popular than others, and cocoa and coffee:
Leafy greens
Some of the most bitter foods are leafy greens. Most leafy greens are pretty bitter and owe their bitterness to glucosinolates, a group of molecules:
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Arugula
Arugula owes its bitter taste to isothiocyanates, which have been shown to have anti-cancer properties. Studies have shown that these small molecules might help against cancer.
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Kale
When it comes to its bitterness, it deserves a place on this list. The isothiocyanate in its leaves makes kale one of the most bitter foods in the world.
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Artichokes
Artichokes have a bitter taste because they contain cynarin, a natural chemical that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties.
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Brussels sprouts
Glucosinolates cause bitterness in Brussel sprouts. Our digestive system breaks them down into various substances, including indoles and thiocyanates.
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Broccoli rabe
Broccoli rabe is the most bitter type of broccoli. The glucosinolates, which give them their bitter taste, are usually found in the plant’s leaves, stems, and flowers.
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Bitter fruits
These bitter fruits have many properties that make them as beneficial as their sweet counterparts, if not more:
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Citrus peel
The bitterness of the citrus peel is due to the presence of limonin, a compound that is found in the rinds of citrus fruits.
2.1
Cranberries
Cranberries are a type of fruit that is native to North America. They contain a good amount of vitamin C, an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage.
2.2
Bitter melon
Bitter melon contains cucurbitacins, a compound that has anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds may help reduce swelling and pain.
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Crabapples
Crabapples, also called wild apples, are a bitter fruit indeed. Crabapples have many health benefits. They are rich in antioxidants, which help fight free radicals in the body.
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Spices and herbs
Although the following spices and herbs have a strong and bitter taste, the bitterness disappears when used in cooking. They are nutritional powerhouses, too:
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Turmeric
The bitterness of turmeric is from curcumin, which is what gives turmeric its yellow color and it also has its beneficial properties.
3.1
Dandelion greens
Dandelion greens are a type of edible weed often found in green areas. Contrary to the belief, they are more than eye candy and are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
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Peppermints
Peppermints are among the most bitter foods because they contain menthol. Menthol is a natural compound that has a cooling effect on the mouth and throat.
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Yarrow
The bitterness of yarrow is due to a chemical called sesquiterpene lactones, which is found in the plant’s leaves, flowers, and stems.
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Cocoa
Cocoa contains antioxidants that can help prevent cancer and heart disease. Cocoa owes its bitter taste to theobromine, a chemical that is found within.
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Coffee beans
Coffee beans are the seeds of the coffee plant. They are roasted to produce the coffee we drink. They contain caffeine, which makes them taste so bitter.
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Radishes
Radishes are a great source of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. Just like turmeric, they too, contain antioxidants. They are low in calories and fat but high in dietary fiber.
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Summary
When consumed in moderation, most bitter foods benefit our body, especially our digestive system. They also have anti-inflammatory properties and reduced the risk of heart disease and cancer.