Turnip or white turnip (Brassica rapa) known as “Shalgam” in Hindi is a root vegetable commonly grown in temperate climates worldwide for its white, bulbous taproot. Turnip greens are also consumed in some parts of the world as a cruciferous vegetable, and there is a slightly different nutrient profile between the leaves and the root.
These leaves, however, are often bitter and must be boiled down to be palatable, much like mustard greens. The root part of the vegetable is commonly boiled or eaten raw, and turnip nutrition and turnip benefits have been known as an important part of the human diet for the better part of two thousand years.
Turnips are not only excellent at soaking up flavor and adding a hearty element to your meals and stews, but the root vegetable also possesses high levels of important nutrients and minerals that the body requires to function properly. From high levels of fiber and vitamin C to unique minerals and antioxidant properties, turnips may not seem like a health-boosting vegetable, but they definitely are. These vegetables are also low in calories and typically inexpensive, making them a logical choice for inclusion in any healthy diet.
Turnip Benefits for Health (Shalgam)
#Cure Asthma
The anti-inflammatory properties of turnips can be attributed to their high content of vitamin C which is a powerful antioxidant. These properties are effective in curing asthma and curbing the symptoms of asthma.
#Heart Health
Turnip has incredible calming properties, which are viewed as key to avoiding heart attacks and heart diseases. They aid the body to decrease the level of cholesterol and encompass incredible measures of folate, a B-vitamin that is discriminating against cardiovascular wellbeing.
#Turnip Benefits for Weight Loss
A low calorie, nutrient-rich foods like turnips can be a great addition to an effective weight loss program. The high fiber content of turnips should promote an active, healthy metabolism as well.
Turnip greens are bitter in taste and are packed with beneficial omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin K, which is important for any inflammatory conditions.
#Digestion
Turnip greens are high in fiber which helps support the body’s digestive system. Glucosinolates, also help the stomach process bacteria like Helicobacter pylori, linked to the development of duodenal ulcers and stomach cancer.
#Eye Health
Turnip greens are a rich source of lutein, a carotenoid that promotes eye health and prevents ocular diseases such as macular degeneration and cataracts.
#Cancer Prevention
Turnips are cruciferous vegetables. They contain high levels of antioxidants and phytonutrients associated with reduced risk of cancer. The glucosinolate levels in turnip greens are excellent. Compounds like glucosinolates found in turnip help the liver process toxins, fight the effects of carcinogens and may even inhibit the growth of tumors.
#Prevents atherosclerosis
When too much of free radicals are formed in the body, they may lead to the oxidation of bad cholesterol and the platelets to form a lump. This may cause atherosclerosis, which is a condition where the blood vessels are damaged. Vitamin C, E and beta carotene present in the roots and turnip greens are rich in antioxidants that counteract the harmful actions of the free radicals.
#Bone Health
Regular consumption of Turnip benefits to inhibit joint damage, risk of osteoporosis and the incidence of Rheumatoid Arthritis due to high levels of calcium and potassium.
Turnip Benefits for Skin (Shalgam)
#Turnip Benefits for Anti-ageing
The anti-oxidants present in turnip benefits to fight against the free radicals that cause aging of the skin and make tour skin look young, without any wrinkles, spots or fine lines.
#For Radiant Skin
Vitamins A and especially C fights and eliminates free radicals that are responsible for causing skin aging, thereby keeping spots away.
Turnip Benefits for Hair (Shalgam)
#Healthy Hair
Turnips are a good source of copper that is involved in melanin formation. Melanin is a pigment that provides color to your hair. They are also rich in antioxidants like vitamins C and E, beta-carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin, turnip benefits to maintain healthy hair.
