We know the benefits and reasons we should make vegetables part of our healthy diet. Research validates the positive effects on our health when we eat our “greens”, but what about when we eat our “roots”? Some vegetables come in the form of roots, including radishes. They might not be flying off the produce aisles at the store, nor are they popularly found in people’s gardens. However, radishes do deserve some attention because of their nutritious content. Radishes are under studied and most information pertains to non-conventional medicinal purposes they have been used for such as Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurveda.
Crunchy radishes have a little of all elements in its dietary make up. One half cup only has 12 calories, 14% of the calcium you need per day, as well as small amounts of copper. Sodium, vitamin k, vitamin B-6, niacin, riboflavin, phosphorus, zinc, magnesium, and manganese. This half cup also has 1 gram of fiber. This helps with digestion, helps manage blood sugar, and to lower cholesterol.
Studies have shown how radish juice can prevent gastric ulcers and strengthen gastric tissue. Radishes are considered a cruciferous vegetable which are known for protecting against cancer. They have isothiocyanates which rid the body of cancer substances. Radishes are antifungal because they have a protein called protein RsAFP2. The antifungal works to kill fungus in humans that can cause oral and vaginal yeast infections as well as very irritating candidiasis.
More holistic uses of radishes have been used to reduce fevers, help with bile disorders, and alleviate sore throat, and to reduce inflammation. Some people use them to help reduce inflammation from bee stings and insect bites. It has been used as a home remedy for jaundice. It’s a natural laxative and breath freshener. They can be enjoyed baked, pickled, grilled, in a salad, in yogurt, or with some dip. Radishes are an unlikely candidate to be found in your grocery cart, but they are a sensible option to help increase your vegetable intake.
Nutrients | Free Full-Text | Radish (Raphanus sativus) and Diabetes (mdpi.com)
Dr. Megan Johnson McCullough owns a fitness studio in Oceanside CA called Every BODY’s Fit. She has a Doctorate in Health and Human Performance, M.A. in Physical Education & Health Science, and she’s an NASM Master Trainer & Instructor. She’s also a professional natural bodybuilder, fitness model, Wellness Coach, and AFAA Group Exercise Instructor. She has 6 books on Amazon too,.
