They might not be the first vegetable that springs to mind when you’re feeling peckish, but radishes have plenty of benefits you might not know about:
1. Plenty of vitamin C
Everybody knows vitamin C is good for you. It’s an antioxidant, helps with immunity and can keep you healthy in all sorts of ways. Just half a cup of radishes gives you almost 15% of your daily allowance.
2. Nutrients galore
On top of all that lovely vitamin C, radishes are also packed with other antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K, vitamin B6, folate, beta carotene, potassium, magnesium, iron, phosphorus, zinc, and selenium.
3. Good for your gut
I’m always on the lookout for new sources of fibre, and now I can look no further than the humble radish. A cup of radishes has almost two grams of fibre, both soluble and insoluble. Soluble fibre is great for slowing down digestion, while insoluble fibre can kick-start your metabolism. Perfect no matter how you’re feeling!
4. Filled with isothiocyanates
“What are these?” I hear you ask. Well, they’re plant chemicals that are good for you, and are found in other veggies too, like cauliflower and cabbage. These chemicals have been shown to be good for your gut and even have anti-cancer properties too.
5. Antifungal
Radishes contain an antifungal protein, which can help stop the growth of certain types of yeast. Eating them can go a long way towards preventing things like yeast infections, digestive troubles and tiredness.
6. Fab for your tummy
Whether sliced up, crunched up or juiced, radishes are here to help your digestive system thrive. They could even prevent stomach ulcers by protecting the lining and strengthening the mucus layer in your belly.
7. Noisy and nourishing
Who doesn’t love a crunchy snack? It’s been proven that the noisier your crunchy food, the more nutrients it contains. Chomp away!
So go on: slice them, dice them, roast them, juice them – however you want to eat them, just make sure radishes are on your next shopping list!
