Radicchio:

Also known as Italian chicory, radicchio is a purple leafy vegetable with a bitter and spicy flavour. One cup of shredded radicchio contains 2 grams of carbohydrates, 1 gram of fiber and 1 gram of protein.

Average calories: 12 per one cup, shredded.

Vitamins found in higher amounts: vitamins K, C, E and B9.

Minerals found in higher amounts: copper, potassium, manganese and phosphorus.

Phytonutrients found in higher amounts and their health benefits: the phytochemicals present in radicchio are carotenoids, flavonoids and lactucopicrin.

Lutein and zeaxanthin are the carotenoids found in radicchio. They are powerful antioxidants that support healthy eyes and protect from age-related eye problems. They also demonstrate anti-cancer activities as well.

The flavonoid found in radicchio is anthocyanin, which causes purple color of the vegetable. It is a potent antioxidant with anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer and immune-boosting properties. Anthocyanin improves blood circulation and strengthens the walls of the vessels.

Found in wild lettuce as well, lactucopicrin is a bitter constituent that has analgesic and sedative effects. Because of being high in lactucopicrin, radicchio is a natural remedy for sleeplessness.