Here is a list of root vegetables and their health values. Once you understand how healthy they are, perhaps you'll add more to your diet.
Onions – are high in fiber, Vitamin C and
antioxidants. Onions may possess powerful anticancer properties and may help
lower blood sugar in people with diabetes.
Carrots – are brimming with Vitamins A and K and the
important anti-oxidant, beta-carotene. Beta-carotene helps protect again
macular degeneration and may aid in the fight against breast, prostate, and
stomach cancer.
Sweet potatoes – are the healthiest of the root
vegetables and the purple sweet potatoes are the healthiest of all. Whether you enjoy purple or orange sweet
potatoes you will be getting fiber and antioxidants which protect your body
from free radical damage and promote a healthy gut and brain. They are also
rich in beta-carotene which is converted to Vitamin A to support good vision
and your immune system.
Potatoes – cooked potatoes can feed your good gut bacteria foods and possess a good chunk of fiber, Vitamin C, Vitamin B-6, potassium, and manganese. (See my blog on probiotic and prebiotic foods: https://lisaprincenutritionexpert.blogspot.com/2024/03/probiotics-and-prebiotics-what-are-they.html).
Beets – are high in nitrates which can help dilate
your blood vessels, potentially lowering blood pressure. They pack a good
amount of fiber, folate, and manganese as well.
Garlic – can promote heart healthy by lowering blood
pressure, triglycerides, and total cholesterol. It may also boost immune
function due to the compound allicin.
Ginger – is a flowering plant from China that is
closely related to other root vegetables like turmeric. It is loaded with
antioxidants including a specific compound called gingerol which has been
associated with a long list of health benefits including reducing nausea and
decreasing pain and inflammation.
Enjoy these root vegetables in soups, stews,
salads, or roasts. I often add left-over root veggies to my luncheon salad the
day after I roast them. Let me know which ones you try and please send me any
recipes that include delicious root veggies. I will post at least one recipe I receive from a loyal follower each month. It could be you! Wishing you good health! Lisa