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Are Radishes Good for You?

Written by Resurchify | Updated on: January 06, 2023

Are Radishes Good for You?

Radishes are a part of a group of root vegetables with crunchy, light-colored flesh, an almost peppery, spicy taste, and variable skin color. They tend to differ in shape from round and short to narrow and long, and their skin can be purple, yellow, black, red, white, or pink. Continue reading to know more about radishes. 

About Radishes 

The parent domesticated species for all varieties of radishes is Raphanus Sativa. The shape and color of radishes are what is known to separate them into several varieties. Radish is considered a native to Central Asia or Southeast Asia. Ancient Romans and Greeks used it for medicinal and food purposes more or about 2,500 years ago. People started to cultivate wild radishes several thousand years ago and encouraged their spread all across the new lands. 

A radish is considered a diet staple, although they possess a very impressive nutritional profile. Such a vegetable is known to contain several nutrients such as folate, potassium, vitamin C, and several antioxidants that positively contribute to a super healthy and fit body. 

Radishes are furthermore low in fat and calories and are high in fiber and water content. As a result of this, they are very effective when included in a weight loss diet. Radishes provide a pungent, unique, peppery taste that can be incorporated into several types of dishes from salads, to pickles for sandwiches, to curries. This vegetable might not be a go-to vegetable for a person, but the advantages coupled with them speak for themselves, so do consider trying it out. 

For instance, globe radish or round radish, also called red radish, is what most often tends to come to the mind of people when thinking of a radish. However, it is just one among the several varieties. The Japanese radish or Daikon is a white radish that resembles a parsnip or carrot. A watermelon radish has a pink interior and pale green skin. The Spanish or black radish has black skin. Red radishes today remain one of the most common radishes present in the supermarket, but daikon and other such varieties are also considered to be gaining popularity. 

A radish contains nutrients and compounds that are considered to be helpful to fight against conditions such as diabetes, digestive disorders, fungal infections, high blood pressure, heart diseases, and certain kinds of cancers. 

Different Kinds and Varieties of Radishes 

The shape and color of a radish generally determine its variety. There are various diverse varieties of Radishes present in the market today. They are: 

  • Red Radish

It is a very common radish across the world. It is also known as a round or globe radish. Red radishes are red in color and can be narrow and long to short and round. 

  • Daikon or Japanese Radish 

It is white in color and is similar to a carrot in its physical appearance. 

  • Black Radish

It has black skin and is also called Spanish Radish. 

  • Watermelon Radish 

It has a pink interior and is pale green in color. 

Apart from the several types of radishes that are very common to people, several other distinguished types of such a root vegetable are not known to many people. These varieties can be: 

  • Black Spanish 
  • French breakfast 
  • Plum purple 
  • Burpee white 
  • Cherry belle
  • Early scarlet globe 
  • China rose 

Is Radish Safe for Consumption? 

The consumption of radishes is very safe. On the contrary, there are various remarkable benefits of radishes on the health of a person unless he goes overboard with them. Radish is consumed and grown in several forms all around the globe. The most common ways a radish is used is as stuffing in a parantha or as a salad. People also use radish to make chutney owing to its intense taste and flavor. 

Health Benefits Associated with Radishes 

A radish is considered a wonderful source of antioxidants such as vanillic acid, catechin, pyrogallol, and other phenolic compounds. Such root vegetables are also known to be a good source of vitamin C, which acts as an antioxidant for protecting the cells of the body from further damage. 

Radishes might not be the most renowned vegetable in a garden, but they are certainly one of the healthiest vegetables out there. Such an undervalued root vegetable is packed with nutrients. It might even prevent or help prevent several health conditions. 

Several health benefits associated with the consumption of radishes are: 

It Helps To Reduce The Risk Of Diabetes. 

Radish contains chemical compounds such as isothiocyanate and glucosinolate that can help in the regulation of blood sugar levels. Eating radishes can also help in the enhancement of the production of natural adiponectin in the body. A high level of this hormone can help in the protection of a person against insulin resistance. Radish also has coenzyme Q10, which is an antioxidant that assists in the blockage of the formation of diabetes. 

It Helps In The Prevention Of Kidney Stones.

Radish contains potassium that helps lower the risk of the development of kidney stones. 

It Helps To Reduce Zen Effects.

Zen or zearalenone is a toxic fungus that invades various animal feeds and corn crops. It has also been liked to reproductive issues in humans and animals, although the risks associated with humans are comparatively smaller. A study performed in 2008, it was provided that extracts from radishes improved the level of antioxidants in mice and can be considered a safe option to prevent or diminish zen effects. 

It Helps To Enhance Liver Function.

Coupled with other compounds, radishes contain 4-methylthio-3-butenyl-isothiocyanate and indole-3-carbinol, which can help with the detoxification of the liver and heal any damage. The same set of compounds is also known to help flush out any toxins from the kidneys. 

It Improves Cardiovascular Functions.

Radishes are rich in minerals and antioxidants such as potassium and calcium. Together, such nutrients help reduce any risks for heart disease and lower high blood pressure. Apart from this, radish is also considered a great source of natural nitrates that helps improve blood flow.

It Has Antifungal Properties.

Radishes come with a natural antifungal feature. They contain RsAFP2, an antifungal protein. A study found that this protein caused the death of cells in Candida albicans, which is a common fungus that can be normally found in a human. When Candida albicans tend to overgrow, it might lead to causing invasive candidiasis, oral yeast infections (thrush), and vaginal yeast infections.

A study performed earlier in mice showed that RsAFP2 is not only effective against Candida albicans, but also against other species of Candida to a comparatively lesser degree. It failed to prove to be an effective choice against Candida glabrata strains. 

It Will Not End Up Derailing A Person’s Healthy Eating Plan.

Half a cup of sliced radishes tends to contain more or about 12 calories and no fat, so it will not end up sabotaging a healthy diet being eaten by a person.

At the time of a strike by munchies, radish can be considered a perfect crunchy snack. Along with this, radish is known to be a good source of Vitamin C. Half a cup of sliced radish tends to offer about 14% of the recommended daily allowance.

Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps the body of a person fight against free radicals and helps in the prevention of cell damage as a result of environmental toxins, an unhealthy lifestyle, and aging. Apart from this, Vitamin C also plays a primary role in the production of collagen that helps support healthy blood vessels and skin. 

It Is Rich In Nutrients.

Radish is very low in carbohydrates, which ends up making it a perfect choice for a person monitoring his sugar or carbohydrate intake. Vegetables have a low level of glycemic index and fewer calories but are rich in several minerals and vitamins. These include: 

  • Calcium 
  • Riboflavin 
  • Thiamine 
  • Folate 
  • Iron 
  • Vitamin K
  • Zinc 
  • Copper 
  • Vitamin C
  • Niacin 
  • Vitamin B6
  • Potassium 
  • Manganese 
  • Magnesium
  • Phosphorus 
  • Sodium 

Half a cup serving of sliced, fresh radish tends to contain: 

  • Calories: 1-2 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 2 grams 
  • Sodium: 23 milligrams 
  • Fat- 0 grams 
  • Sugar: 0 grams 
  • Cholesterol: 0 milligrams 
  • Fiber: 0 grams 
  • Protein: 0 grams 

It Helps In Controlling Blood Pressure.

A radish helps provide potassium to the body, which can help in lowering blood pressure, and keeping the flow of blood in control, especially if a person is known to be suffering from any condition such as hypertension. As per Ayurveda, radishes are believed to have a cooling effect on a person’s blood. 

It Helps In The Improvement Of Immunity.

As radish characterizes itself with a high vitamin C, it can help protect a person from cough and cold, while also helping improve the basic immunity system; but it must be consumed regularly by a person. In addition, it also helps to control inflammation, early aging, and the development of free radicals that can be harmful to a person. 

It Helps In The Fortification Of Blood Vessels.

Radish tends to play an important role when it comes to generating collagen. This in turn helps boost the blood vessels of a person coupled with reducing his chances of suffering from a condition called atherosclerosis. 

It Is Metabolism-Friendly.

Radish is a root vegetable that is not only good for the digestive system of a person but also helps in fixing other issues such as nausea, gastric problems, obesity, acidity, etc. 

It Is Good For The Skin.

Drinking juice made of radish every day can give skin a special booster to stay happier and healthier; this is mostly a result of the presence of phosphorus, Vitamin C, and Zinc. Additionally, it also helps to keep rashes, acne, pimples, and dryness at bay. A paste made up of radish can help a person cleanse his face. Upon applying the same on to your hair, it can strengthen the roots, prevent hair loss, and remove dandruff, making your hair stronger. 

It Is Good For Hydration.

If a person tends to consume radishes frequently in summer, it can probably be because the body can be kept hydrated with its consumption as a result of the high-water content present in it. 

It Is Good For Managing Weight.

Fiber fails to digest easily and can help a person feel fuller for a longer duration, and hence one can avoid eating in between two meals or overeating. Along with this, it can also help in lowering blood cholesterol levels by binding bad cholesterol (LDL). Mooli moong dal can be considered a nourishing choice for someone who aspires to lose weight and gain in fiber and proteins while avoiding the intake of a lot of calories. 

It Helps Support A Healthy Digestive System.

Half a cup of radishes can provide a person with a gram of fiber. Consuming a couple of servings every day can help a person reach his ideal fiber intake goal easily. Fiber helps in the prevention of constipation by bulking up a stool to help the waste generated by the body to move through the intestines of a person.

Additionally, fiber might also help a person manage his blood sugar levels, and has been linked to a reduction in cholesterol levels and weight as well. Leaves of radish might be beneficial as well.

A study conducted on rats in 2008 that were fed a diet high in cholesterol than a radish leaf showed that it was a better source of fiber when it came to the improvement of digestive function. This may partially be a result of the increased production of bile.

Another study showed that radish juice might help protect gastric tissue and strengthen the mucosal barrier, leading to the prevention of gastric ulcers. The mucosal barrier helps in the protection of the intestines and stomach against damaging toxins and unfriendly microorganisms that might cause inflammation and ulcers. 

It Has Several Anticancer Properties. 

Eating cruciferous vegetables such as a radish might help with the prevention of cancer. As per the Linus Pauling Institute, these vegetables contain compounds that are broken into isothiocyanates when coupled with water. It helps purge the body of substances causing cancer and prevents the development of tumors. A study performed in 2010 discovered that the extract from radish root contained various types of isothiocyanates that caused the death of cells in several cancer cell lines. 

It Helps Provide Relief From Gastric Discomforts.

Radish proves to be a great source of high-fiber and fiber foods than can help eliminate constipation and regulate bowel movements. 

It Provides Relief Against Cough.

Radish acts as a stimulant and expectorant. Soup or juice made up of radish can help expel phlegm in elderly and toddlers who tend to face difficulty while coughing or spitting out the thick mucus. 

How can a Person Eat Radishes? 

Radish is widely available in specialty groceries, supermarkets, and farmer's markets. It is primarily a spring and winter vegetable. Radish is generally eaten raw and has a spicy and zesty taste. Such a flavor is caused by enzymes found in wasabi, horseradish, and mustard. Cooking a radish tends to dull its pungent flavor and bring out a sweet and earthy taste. 

Now if a person thought there is only so much he can possibly do with a radish, he would undoubtedly be mistaken. Some of the delicious and healthy ways in which a person can consider incorporating radishes into his diet are: 

  • Make pickled radishes with the use of spices and vinegar 
  • Make a dip with radish by pulsing half a cup of Greek yogurt, one minced clove of garlic, one-fourth cup of chopped radishes, and about a flash of red wine vinegar into a bowl or food processor until smooth. 
  • Top a burger with sliced radish and lettuce 
  • Roast radishes with olive oil and garlic 
  • Braise pork chops with crunchy and delicious sliced radish 
  • Give chicken salad or tuna salad crunch and pep with the addition of one or two teaspoons of chopped radish. 
  • Add a thin layer of radish slices to your sandwiches. 
  • Add grated radish to the slaw that you always loved. 
  • Use coarsely chopped radishes to give your tacos a zesty crunch.

While preparing radishes, refrain from tossing over the green parts. Radish greens can be highly healthy and tasty. They are flavourful when sauteed in a bit of garlic and olive oil or in a salad. A person can also consider mixing them with other greens such as spinach, turnip greens, mustard greens, and kale. 

Special warnings and precautions to consider while consuming radishes 

When Taken by Mouth 

Radish is generally considered to be safe for consumption by people when taken in a moderate amount. Consuming the same in a large amount can end up irritating the digestive tract. Some people, although it is rare, might be allergic to radishes. 

Breastfeeding and Pregnancy 

There fails to exist enough information to prove whether the consumption of radish is safe or not to be done while a person is breastfeeding or pregnant. It is recommended that a person stays on the safer side and avoid using more than an amount that can be found in food items. 

Diabetes 

A large amount of radish might lower the level of blood sugar. Always consider watching out for signs of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) and efficiently monitor the blood sugar level if a person has diabetes and use radish. 

Gallstones 

Radishes must be used with complete care and caution if a person has gallstones. It increases the flow of bile. In a person with gallstones, such an effect might raise the risk of sudden pain as a result of a gallstone blocking the bile duct. 

Surgery 

A large amount of radish might help lower the level of blood sugar in the body. There tends to exist some concern that it might interfere with the control of blood sugar after and during the surgery. If a person has surgery scheduled for a particular day, he should consider refraining from using radish for about 2 weeks before it. 

Things to avoid eating with radish 

If a person consumes the following things along with radish, he might end up deteriorating his health; therefore, their consumption must be avoided. 

Radish with Milk 

If a person eats radish or parathas made up of radish for breakfast followed by a glass of milk with it, then it is highly recommended that he changes his habit. 

Drinking milk immediately after eating radish can be harmful to health. Radish and milk when consumed together can cause several skin diseases. Milk tends to have a cooling effect that might affect the digestive system. On the other hand, radish tends to heat the internal parts of the body. Therefore, they shall not be consumed together. 

Radish with Cucumber 

Cucumber is generally eaten mixed in a salad with radish, but doing so can prove to be bad for health. Vitamin C is absorbed by the presence of ascorbate in a cucumber. 

Radish with Orange 

The consumption of radishes with oranges is again not very beneficial for the health of a person. Eating radishes with oranges can act like poison. The consumption of oranges post eating radish can spoil the process of digestion, and well as make a person a potential victim of several diseases. 

Dosing of Radishes 

An appropriate dosage of radish tends to depend on an array of factors such as the health of the user, his age, and other such conditions. At this time, there fails to exist enough scientific information to determine an appropriate amount of dose for radish.

Always keep in mind that a natural product is not necessarily safe all the time and its dosage is therefore important to consider. A person should follow the directions printed on product labels and consult his physician or pharmacist or any other healthcare professional in case of any problem. 

Conclusion 

Radishes indeed are good for you. They are a safe option to consume but remember to not go overboard with their consumption if you suffer from thyroid or any other major issue. 

The next time a person strolls through the produce section of a grocery store, radishes must never be left an afterthought while shopping. He might fail to consume enough amount to fulfill his daily recommended intake of every nutrient, but the addition of a serving or two of radish in your diet every day can give you a good dose of healthy and beneficial nutrients along with compounds to fight away diseases. 

Radish is a root vegetable that has heaps of compounds and nutrients such as folate, vitamin C, potassium, and other important antioxidants that tend to positively bestow towards a healthier and fitter version of yourself. A person can reap a ton of extraordinary benefits to his health with the inclusion of radishes in his daily meal


         

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Resurchify
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