Amazing Turnip

Those cute purple, red, green, or white turnip bulbs may not be your favorite staple, but before you skip on this root vegetable, you may need to really think twice. This cruciferous veggie which is the size of an apple may just be your best bet when you are searching for the best source of phytochemicals. That’s Right! You may have heard of phyto nutrients that many green and leafy vegetables have, which is great in the fight against carcinogens or those cancer-causing substances. This means your body has a better chance of warding off toxins that you are exposed to on a day-to-day basis.

Just Where Did These Turnips Came From?

Turnips are native to Western Asia and have been used as a food for both humans and livestock. The bigger turnips are fed to the latter. During the Middle Ages, turnip is considered a poor man’s staple in Europe, before people loved potatoes. Turnips are harvested during fall and winter, and usually grows in temperate climates. These turnips are usually white, and turns into a shade of purple, red, or green when sunlight falls on it. Unlike contrary beliefs, one can also eat the leaves of the turnip ( so don’t you throw those extra leaves away ).

How Do You Choose, Store, and Prepare Turnips?

Always choose a medium-sized turnip that is about 2-3 inches in diameter. This has the best taste of them all. Make sure that the turnip is also firm and heavy, and that the green leaves are dark and crisp. Since turnips grow in temperate climates, it is best to store it in the fridge. Separate the greens and put it in a plastic zip lock bag. If properly stored, your turnip will last up to 4 days. If you are preparing your turnip for cooking, you need to peel it and wash the greens in a bowl of water. You can fold each leaf in half, and cut off the stem. If you will use your turnip in a soup, you can leave the stems intact.

What are the Health Benefits of a Turnip?

1. Since turnips are rich in fiber, it is a good food that is low in calories which can help you stay in shape.

2. Turnips’ high vitamin C and anti-oxidant contents help fight free radicals and oxidation that cause a lot of chronic diseases.

3. Turnips lower your chances of acquiring obesity, high blood pressure, heart and lung diseases, diabetes, cancer, and bladder problems

4. Turnips are rich in calcium, folic acid, magnesium, and phosphorus which are all essential nutrients needed by the human body.

5. Turnips reduce your risks from getting cataracts and vision-related problems.

If you are suffering any thyroid condition, you need to limit your turnip intake since it is rich in a substance called Goitrogens, which can prevent proper functioning of the thyroid glands. In traditional Asian medicine, turnips are believed to be good for the body’s Qi or energy, which makes turnips a great food against nasal congestion, bronchitis, and asthma.

Turnips, coupled with a healthy lifestyle and healthy choices, will surely aid you in your quest for maximum health. There are many recipes on the web that will turn your humble turnip into a yummy treat. Bon Appetite.. to Health!

Savant, MD on Turnips: