Unlocking the Health Benefits of Radish: Raw or Cooked?

When it comes to winters, radish, or mooli, is a popular vegetable that is consumed both raw in the form of salads, or cooked in soups, broths, parathas, and even as a vegetable. Both raw and cooked radish offer distinct health benefits, which help you based on your health goals, and preferred way of eating.Let's take a look...Nutrition in radishRadish is low in calories, and a good source of vitamin C, folate, fibre and minerals such as potassium and magnesium. The plant contains specificcompoundswhich include glucosinolates and flavonoids, that could help protect heart health and liver function and defend cells from damage.Habits to Boost Longevity and HealthRaw radish: key benefitsPeople who eat raw radish either in salads or as a snack, will preserve their heat-sensitive vitamins including vitamin C.Researchindicates that raw radish contains more minerals than boiled radish, because cooking water removes these minerals and potassium from the food.Raw radish contains two main compounds, which are natural enzymes and glucosinolates, that help protect the body through antioxidant defense and normal detoxification processes. The powerful peppery flavor, together with its high fiber content, may lead to digestive issues including gas and discomfort, when consumers consume excessive amounts of this food.by Taboolaby TaboolaSponsored LinksSponsored LinksPromoted LinksPromoted LinksYou May LikeNita Ambani unveils an innovative treehouse at Nita Mukesh...UndoAngry Ukrainians sue Intel, AMD and Texas Instruments for 'powering' Russian drones, missiles; claim they rely on 'Putin checkbox' that says: We ...The Times of IndiaUndoCooked radish: key benefitsThe process of cooking radish through steaming, sautéing and roasting, makes it simpler to eat and digest, while reducing its strong taste. Heat treatment of food can damage some cell walls which enables your body to extract antioxidants and plant compounds from the food more effectively.Studies on thermally processed and pressure‑roasted radish, show that some types of heat treatment can actually increase total phenols, flavonoids and antioxidant activity, compared with untreated radish or some preserved forms.Animal subject research showed that roasted and cooked radish extracts reduced liver oxidative stress, while they boosted antioxidant enzyme activity.What happens to nutrients when cookingThe process of boiling water results in some loss of vitamin C and water-soluble nutrients, which ends up in the cooking water. The process of discardingwaterresults in losing essential nutrients which steaming and stir-frying with minimal water helps to minimise.The stability of minerals in radish remains high, but potassium, together with several other minerals can leach into cooking water during boiling, which results in slightly decreased mineral content of boiled radish compared to its raw state. Scientists have discovered through their research into radish heat treatment methods, that particular thermal processing techniques allow them to boost phenolic compound levels and antioxidant properties, which results in better health advantages.Health benefits linked to radish compoundsResearch studies have shown that radish possesses multiple health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties, liver protection, cholesterol reduction and diabetes management, according to review articles. Research conducted on radish root, leaf and pod extracts shows they possess anti-inflammatory properties, which also help regulate insulin function, and improve blood lipid profiles according to laboratory research.Research shows that particular red radish preparations modify gut microbiota, which leads to changes in metabolic health markers that could help people manage their blood pressure and cholesterol levels and weight.Raw or cooked: Which is healthierFrom anutritionpoint of view, neither raw nor cooked radish is clearly “better”; they are simply different, and can complement each other. The best way to enjoy its benefits is to use recipes accordingly, and consume both in moderation throughout the week.Disclaimer: This article is informational only and not a substitute for medical adviceGet an chance to win ₹5000 Amazon Voucher by taking part in India's Biggest Habit Index! Take the survey here