Vegetables are a powerhouse of nutrients, thus offering numerous amazing health benefits.
Along with the popular vegetables, you may also want to try some of the lesser-known ones as well.
So, read ahead!
There are thousands of vegetable species available in the world. But as it turns out, most people stick to only the popular ones such as spinach, broccoli, potatoes, bok choy, cabbage, and more. However, as experts suggest, it's crucial to increase the variety in your diet to get all the vitamins, minerals, and other plant compounds. So, in this article, let's have a look at five lesser-known vegetables that you should eat on a regular basis.
Sunchoke is a powerhouse of inulin
Sunchoke - also called Jerusalem artichoke - is a delicious root vegetable native to North America. It's an excellent source of inulin (a type of dietary fiber) that contains strong prebiotic properties. Also, it has lots of vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, fructans, iron, potassium, and more. It helps lower blood pressure levels, regulate cholesterol levels, prevent anemia, aid in weight loss, and also reduce the risk of certain types of cancer.
Celeriac is a rich source of antioxidants
Celeriac is another root vegetable that comes from the same family as carrots. It makes for a healthier alternative to potatoes and can be used in salads, soups, and stews. Also, it's packed with vitamin C, vitamin K, vitamin B6, fiber, phosphorus, manganese, potassium, and a lot more. If consumed regularly, it can aid in digestion, support bone strength, and improve cardiovascular functions.
Kohlrabi has a low glycemic index
Kohlrabi is a cruciferous vegetable that can be eaten both raw and cooked. It's a rich source of vitamins, minerals, as well as antioxidants that offer an impressive range of health benefits. Thanks to its low GI, kohlrabi helps control diabetes to a great extent. Also, it improves bone density, aids in digestion, enhances skin health, promotes cardiovascular functions, and more.
Daikon is known for its diuretic nature
Daikon boasts a mild flavor, making it a great ingredient in salads, soups, curries, etc. It's low in calories and contains various nutrients like copper, potassium, calcium, magnesium, folate, vitamin C, and more. Also, it has plant compounds (such as glucosinolates) that keep several issues at bay. As per studies, regular intake of daikon may aid in digestion, boost the immune system, improve bone strength, promote weight loss, and also reduce cancer risk.
Rapini is packed with soluble fiber
Also known as broccoli rabe, rapini is rich in anti-cancer properties. Besides, it contains a high amount of vitamins (A, B, C, K), iron, zinc, fiber, calcium, magnesium, potassium, omega-3 fatty acids, and many more. Studies have found that people who eat rapini regularly are less likely to suffer from bone-related issues. Moreover, it controls diabetes, boosts immunity, and promotes cardiovascular health as well.
Apart from these, the list also includes oca, nopales, samphire, manioc, romanesco, etc.
