6 healthiest root vegetables you need to add to your diet!

Maintaining a healthy diet is crucial for overall well-being, and incorporating root vegetables in your diet can be a game-changer. These underground wonders are not only delicious but also packed with an array of health benefits. These nutrient-packed vegetables offer a wide range of health benefits, from boosting immune function to promoting heart health. Let us introduce you to six of the healthiest root vegetables that deserve a special place on your plate. From the eye-boosting carrots to the heart-healthy beets, we’ll uncover the reasons why these veggies should be a part of your everyday diet.

6 healthiest root vegetables for a balanced diet

Here are six of the healthiest root vegetables praised by healthcare professionals and discover the reasons why they should be an essential part of your diet:

1. Carrots: A feast for the eyes and more

Carrots are renowned for their vibrant orange color and are rich in beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A. “This essential vitamin supports healthy vision, boosts immune function, and promotes skin health,” says Bharathi Kumar, Dietician, Fortis Hospital, Nagarbhavi, Bengaluru. Additionally, carrots provide a good amount of fiber and antioxidants, making them a nutritious addition to your diet.

2. Sweet potatoes: A nutritional powerhouse

Sweet potato or shakarkandi is a nutritional powerhouse. They contain generous amounts of fiber, along with vitamins A and C, as well as potassium. According to the nutrition expert, these complex carbohydrates contribute to regulating blood sugar levels, and their high antioxidant content may help reduce inflammation and enhance skin health. Incorporating sweet potatoes into your meals adds both flavour and nutritional value.

Also read: Baked Vs boiled sweet potato: Which one is healthier for you?

3. Beets: A root vegetable for a healthy heart

Kumar explains that beetroot is low in calories but rich in beneficial nutrients. They contain fiber, folate, manganese, and potassium. The nitrates present in beets have been linked to improved cardiovascular health and reduced blood pressure. Moreover, beets are packed with antioxidants, supporting liver function and potentially possessing anti-inflammatory properties. You can try healthy recipe of beets to include it in your diet.

4. Radish: A refreshing and nutrient-packed option

With their crisp texture and peppery flavor, radishes provide a refreshing addition to salads and other dishes. Radishes are not only a refreshing addition to meals but also a fantastic source of antioxidants, fiber, and vitamin C. “These vibrant root vegetables have been linked to enhanced digestion, courtesy of compounds that support the production of digestive enzymes,” says Kumar. Additionally, they possess anti-inflammatory properties and may support liver health.

5. Turnips: Versatile and nutrient-rich

Turnip or shalgam is a versatile root vegetable that offers a myriad of health benefits. They provide fiber, vitamins C and K, as well as minerals such as potassium and manganese. Low in calories and high in water content, turnips aid in maintaining hydration. They also contain glucosinolates, compounds linked to cancer prevention.

Also read: Manage diabetes with the power of turnips!

6. Parsnips: A sweet twist to your meals

Resembling carrots in appearance but with a sweeter taste and white in colour, parsnips are a nutritional powerhouse. Turnips are a valuable source of fiber, vitamin C, and folate, providing essential nutrients to support a healthy diet. “Parsnips also provide potassium, which supports heart health, and antioxidants that potentially lower the risk of chronic diseases,” says Kumar.

Incorporating a variety of root vegetables into your diet is an excellent way to boost your nutrient intake and support overall health. So why wait? Start adding these incredible root vegetables to your meals and reap the rewards of a nutritious and balanced diet!