Vegetables such as celery and radishes tend to be overlooked as food that is both nutritious and tasty. Most of the times, celery and radishes are seen as watery sides best avoided and never the main event.
However, here are 10 reasons why we should consider incorporating both of these in our regular diets.
5 Reasons why you should eat Radishes
- Liver Detox
Diastase is a compound found in radishes that transforms starch into a sugar, maltose that your body generates when starchy foods are digested. Maltose helps to keep the liver clear from infection and ulcers.
2. Hydration
Radishes are mainly made out of water, and when consumed, this vegetable helps to keep the body hydrated. It also stops your skin from drying out.
3. A Source of Vitamin C
100g of radish provides you with almost 25 per cent of your recommended daily allowance of vitamin C. It is also an antioxidant that plays a key role in giving your skin a natural glow while helping to prevent premature ageing.
4. A Fat Buster
Radishes are low in digestible carbohydrates, high in roughage and contain a lot of water. As such, they are a good dietary option for those who are determined to lose weight. In addition, radishes stimulate bile production from the liver, which in turn aids the digestion and absorption of healthy fats.
5. Improves Gut Health
Radishes are rich in fibre. Consuming a couple of servings during the day may help to prevent sluggish bowel movements, whilst also eliminating harmful toxins.
5 Reasons why you should eat Celery
- Rich Source of Fibre
Consumption of celery may help regulate bowel movements by reducing constipation or loosening stools due to its fibrous content.
2. Anti Inflammatory
Environmental chemicals or imbalances in your gut may lead to chronic inflammation which can cause digestive complications. The anti-inflammatory compounds found in celery, such as pectin; a starch that occurs naturally in the cell walls of vegetables help reduce inflammation.
3. Colon Cleanse
Celery contains polyphenol compounds or micronutrients particularly luteolin – a plant flavonoid that has been known to hamper certain stages of cancer formations, therefore blocking the growth of human colon cancer cells.
4. Improves gut flora
Gut flora is the natural bacteria that helps to keep the stomach healthy. It forms a major part of digestive function. Celery also contains prebiotics called fructans – a non-digestible food ingredient that promotes the growth of beneficial microorganisms which are needed for gut flora to colonise and thrive.
5. Decreases the risk of heart burn and gastric ulcers
Studies show that celery contains apiuman, which is a starch believed to enhance the stomach lining. It regulates secretions made by the gut and helps to decrease the risk of gastric ulcers. Further, the alkalinity of celery help to alleviate symptoms of heartburn by neutralising acid formation.
