Treating Yourself to Turnips
By Brandi Goodman
Turnips are a root vegetable often considered among the likes of potatoes and beets. They're actually close in relation to radishes in terms of taste and texture. You can bake them, add them to salads, make them into stews or stir-frys, or enjoy them steamed. No matter how you add turnips to your menu, there are lots of health benefits that make them worthwhile.
Low Calories
One great thing about turnips is that they're low in calories. A full medium turnip has just 34 calories on average. You can enjoy one anytime you please without worry. Saute your turnip with some seasoning and you have an easy snack.
Full of Fiber
Fiber is great for digestion and keeping you full. One turnip has two grams available, making it an ideal eat. It's about the same amount as one kiwi.
Vitamins Galore
Lots of vitamins are available from turnips. However, you need to make sure you're eating the right part. Turnips actually include both the green stems and the white and purple hued bulb. The green portion is where you'll find most of the vitamins, including Vitamin A and Vitamin C. Plenty of Vitamin C and other nutrients exist in the bulb, though, if that's the only portion you tend to eat. In fact, one medium turnip provides 42 percent of your recommended daily value of this essential vitamin.
Flowing With Folate
Folate is another nutrient found in turnips. This B vitamin is necessary for making DNA. It's imperative for expectant mothers. You're usually told to get your folate intake from leafy greens, broccoli, and asparagus. Turnips are also flowing with it. One cup of broccoli provides just 57 mcg of folate. A turnip can provide 118 mcg of it.
Plenty of Potassium
Potassium is necessary for muscle function, fluid balance, and energy. Most people suggest eating a banana to get a dose, but turnips are a good source as well. Just one turnip provides more than half as much potassium as a full-size banana. You'll get 233 mg on average from a turnip, which is more beneficial than a lot of fruit and vegetable choices.
Treat yourself to turnips and enjoy the benefits. You'll usually see them harvested in the spring and fall, giving you lots of time to gain their health advantages. There's lots of ways to make them and plenty of options for enhancing the taste.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Kingwood, Tex.