8 Amazing Health Benefits of Turnips
Like many other cruciferous vegetables,
turnips are extremely rich in nutrients and low in calories. Both the
root and the leafy greens are nutritious and tasty to eat, but this
article will focus mainly on the health benefits of the root.
Below are 8 reasons why you need to start adding turnips to your diet:
1. Improves Heart Health
Turnips contain a number of essential
nutrients that our bodies need to function properly, such as fiber and
potassium. Potassium acts as a vasodilator, helping to decrease the
strain on our blood vessels and arteries by lowering blood pressure.
This can help prevent the development of atherosclerosis, as well as
heart attacks and strokes. Fiber, on the other hand, is great at
scraping excess cholesterol from the heart and eliminating it from the
body.
2. Aids Digestion
Most of us know that dietary fiber is important in the digestive
process. It can help to treat symptoms of diarrhea, constipation,
bloating, and cramping. The fiber that is found in turnips helps to bulk
up the stool and move it through the gut while promoting more efficient
uptake of nutrients so we get the most from our food.
3. Improves Blood Circulation
The significant levels of iron found in turnips makes them a great asset
if you happen to suffer from a low blood cell count or anemia. Iron is
required in the form of RBC, which is needed by the body to repair,
oxygenate, and run the body's organ systems. Therefore, more iron in the
body means better circulation to every extremity of the body.
4. Boosts the Immune System
Ascorbic acid and vitamin C, present in
large quantities in turnips, are important boosters for the immune
system. Vitamin C stimulates the production of white blood cells and
antibodies, in addition to acting as an antioxidant and reducing chronic
health issues such as cancer and heart disease.
5. Improves Bone Strength
The calcium present in turnips aids in the growth and repair of bone
matter. It's essential in boosting the bone mineral density, especially
as we get older and begin to suffer from arthritis and osteoporosis.
Therefore, if you want to add some strength and durability to your
bones, add turnips to your diet!
6. Prevents Cancer
Aside from vitamin C, turnips contain considerable levels of vitamin E,
beta-carotene, and manganese, all of which function as antioxidants.
These antioxidants seek out and neutralize free radicals before they can
induce cell mutation or spread cancer.
7. Fight Inflammation
Turnip greens are packed with beneficial omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin
K, which are important if you suffer from any inflammatory conditions.
These good fats can decrease inflammation, balance cholesterol levels,
and promote overall wellness. Therefore, you should boil down these
leaves and enjoy the benefits, especially if you suffer from arthritis,
gout, or chronic pain.
8. Boosts Metabolism
The B family of vitamins is often overlooked, but without them, our
enzymatic and hormonal processes would be difficult to control, and all
of our bodily functions would be compromised. Turnips give us a healthy
dose of vitamin B, ensuring that all of our organ systems are
functioning correctly and that our hormone levels are stable.