By: Amanda Venuto, Intern
Sometimes, we just need to get to the root of our problems, and some of our problems could be solved with root vegetables! You may ask, “What makes a vegetable a root vegetable?” Simply, these vegetables were once roots—they grew in soil. Because of this environment, root vegetables are known to absorb antioxidants, vitamins, and iron. They are also loaded with fiber. Some well-known root vegetables include carrots and sweet potatoes. However, in this blog, I am going to discuss a couple of the healthiest, and perhaps relatively unknown root vegetables.
I’m sure quite a few people have heard of these, but may have resisted trying them. Beets are recognized as one of the healthiest foods in the world. They are packed with phytonutrients called betalains. These betalains offer antioxidants, as well as anti-inflammatory and detoxification aid. In addition, beets are abundant in minerals manganese, copper, potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, vitamin C, and vitamin B6. This root vegetable provides protection against heart disease, birth defects, and cancer.
Another root vegetable that you should try is rutabaga. It is a crossbreed between cabbage and turnips, and like beets, has a plethora of health benefits. Similar to beets, rutabaga is high in antioxidants, potassium, and fiber. Furthermore, it can help prevent cancer, heart disease, and strokes. In contrast to beets, rutabagas are an excellent source of zinc, which plays an important role in enzyme formation.
For recipe ideas, click HERE
Sources:
http://www.healthbenefitstimes.com/health-benefits-of-rutabaga/
http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=49
Sometimes, we just need to get to the root of our problems, and some of our problems could be solved with root vegetables! You may ask, “What makes a vegetable a root vegetable?” Simply, these vegetables were once roots—they grew in soil. Because of this environment, root vegetables are known to absorb antioxidants, vitamins, and iron. They are also loaded with fiber. Some well-known root vegetables include carrots and sweet potatoes. However, in this blog, I am going to discuss a couple of the healthiest, and perhaps relatively unknown root vegetables.
I’m sure quite a few people have heard of these, but may have resisted trying them. Beets are recognized as one of the healthiest foods in the world. They are packed with phytonutrients called betalains. These betalains offer antioxidants, as well as anti-inflammatory and detoxification aid. In addition, beets are abundant in minerals manganese, copper, potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, vitamin C, and vitamin B6. This root vegetable provides protection against heart disease, birth defects, and cancer.
Another root vegetable that you should try is rutabaga. It is a crossbreed between cabbage and turnips, and like beets, has a plethora of health benefits. Similar to beets, rutabaga is high in antioxidants, potassium, and fiber. Furthermore, it can help prevent cancer, heart disease, and strokes. In contrast to beets, rutabagas are an excellent source of zinc, which plays an important role in enzyme formation.
For recipe ideas, click HERE
Sources:
http://www.healthbenefitstimes.com/health-benefits-of-rutabaga/
http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=49
RSS Feed
