Here’s the low-down on what makes radishes and celery great for you
Radishes and celery are the stars of many salads, but their nutritional value extends far beyond simple summer refreshment. Read on to discover the ways these veggies can boost your health.
The benefits of celery
1 Boosts fibre
The fibre in celery may help to regulate bowel movements by reducing constipation or loosening stools. Consider upping your intake, as one cup of celery provides about six per cent of your daily fibre needs.
2 Reduces inflammation
Environmental chemicals or imbalances in your gut may lead to chronic inflammation which can cause digestive complications. However, celery contains anti-inflammatory compounds such as pectin; a starch that occurs naturally in the cell walls of vegetables.
3 Cleanses the colon
Celery contains polyphenol compounds or micronutrients particularly luteolin – a plant flavonoid which has been known to interfere with various 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 happy, and forms a major part of digestive function. Celery 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 improve the stomach lining, whilst regulating secretions made by the gut, helping to decrease the risk of gastric ulcers. The alkalinity of celery also helps to alleviate symptoms of heart burn by neutralising acid formation.
The rewards of eating radishes
1 Detoxes the liver
Radishes contain liver-supporting compounds such as diastase, which transforms starch into maltose (a sugar that your body generates when starchy foods are digested). These compounds help to keep the liver clear from infection and ulcers.
2 Keeps you hydrated
These crunchy roots are mainly composed of water, and when consumed, this vegetable helps to keep the body hydrated and stop your skin from drying out.
3 Vitamin C
100g of radish provides you with nearly 25 per cent of your recommended daily allowance of vitamin C. This antioxidant plays a key role in giving your skin a natural glow while helping to prevent premature ageing.
4 Helps digest fat
Radishes stimulate bile production from the liver, which in turn aids the digestion and absorption of healthy fats. They are low in digestible carbohydrates, high in roughage and contain a lot of water, and are a good dietary option for those who are determined to lose weight.
5 Improves gut motility
A ½-cup serving of radish gives you one gramme of fibre. Consuming a couple of servings during the day may help to prevent sluggish bowel movements, whilst eliminating harmful toxins.
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