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Last Updated on May 5, 2023 by Shabnam Sengupta
Radishes are a type of root vegetable with a crispy texture and a tangy, spicy flavour. They come in different shapes and skin colours including red, white and purple. They all originate from the Raphanus sativus species. Radishes have a rich history of use in both culinary and medicinal contexts, dating back thousands of years. They have been spread to new areas through cultivation. The most commonly known variety is the white radish, also referred to as Japanese radish. It is the most common type that you find in India. Radish is a cruciferous vegetable that is low in calories and high in essential nutrients, making it a great addition to any healthy diet. In this article, we will delve into the health benefits of radish, its nutrients and uses.
Health benefits of radish
Anti-cancer properties
Radishes, cruciferous vegetables, possess cancer-preventive properties. According to the Linus Pauling Institute, these vegetables are rich in compounds that can be converted into isothiocyanates. These isothiocyanates have the ability to eliminate carcinogens from the body and inhibit cancer cell growth.
In another study, researchers discovered that a radish extract decreased the growth of the cancer cells and change the activity of certain genes linked to cancer growth and cell death. It does this by stopping a pathway that helps cancer cells grow and by increasing the activity of genes that promote cell death. This suggests that radish extract could be a useful treatment for cancer, particularly breast cancer.
Anti-diabetic properties
Research indicates that the radish extract can inhibit the activity of α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzymes. The aqueous extract of radish at a concentration of 10 mg mL significantly inhibits the activity of α-glucosidase. These enzymes are essential for breaking down poly- and oligosaccharides in the intestine before they are absorbed. Hence, inhibition of these enzymes reduces the absorption of glucose, which is useful for managing and preventing diabetes.
To put it simply, radish is very helpful for people with diabetes as it has properties that can improve the body’s ability to defend against damage caused by high blood sugar levels. These properties include reducing stress and damage to cells, improving glucose regulation, and reducing glucose absorption in the intestine.
Helps lowers high blood pressure
Radishes contain potassium, which is an important mineral that can help regulate blood pressure. A study published in Korea found that rats that were fed a diet containing radish extract had lower blood pressure than rats that were fed a normal diet.
In this study, rats with high blood pressure were given different amounts of radish extract for five weeks, while a control group was also included. Those who consumed the highest amount of extract experienced a significant decrease in blood pressure and an increase in antioxidant enzyme activity in red blood cells. The extract also increased the excretion of sodium and potassium in their faeces which is believed to contribute to its antihypertensive effects.
Helps reduce toxic fungus
Zearalenone (zen) is a type of toxin produced by fungi that can contaminate corn crops and animal feeds, leading to negative effects on reproductive health in both animals and humans. Although the risk of human exposure to zen is considered to be low, it is still a concern. A study conducted in 2008 found that the use of radish extract could potentially help to mitigate the harmful effects of zen by improving antioxidant levels in mice. This suggests that radish extract could be a safe and effective way to reduce or prevent the negative impacts of zen contamination.
Helps detoxify liver
Studies have shown that radish extract has potential benefits for the liver. The bioactive compounds such as folic acid, dietary fibre, flavonoids, polyphenolics, vitamin A, vitamin C, and GLs present in radish can reduce the severity of fatty liver disease and exhibit liver-protective effects. Radish extract has antioxidant properties that reduce oxidative stress and prevent fat accumulation in the liver. It also decreases enzymes indicating liver damage and lower lipid and cholesterol levels.
High in antioxidants
Radish roots and leaves are rich in essential nutrients and secondary metabolites with antioxidant properties. The leaves contain more proteins, calcium, ascorbic acid, and phenolic compounds than the roots, with flavonoids being four times higher in the leaves. Red radishes, in particular, have high levels of acylated pelargonidin derivatives, which exhibit both antioxidant and prooxidant properties depending on the concentration and reaction conditions. Anthocyanins, another type of antioxidant compound found in radishes, also have chemoprotective effects by activating antioxidant enzymes and inhibiting cell proliferation.
Conclusion
Despite not being a common dietary choice, radishes are a highly nutritious vegetable that can contribute to a healthy body. They are rich in nutrients like potassium, vitamin C, folate, and antioxidants that have been shown to be beneficial for various conditions including diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and some cancers. Their unique peppery flavour can be added to a range of dishes, such as curries, salads, and pickles, making them a versatile ingredient worth trying out.
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