Parsnip is a root vegetable that has been cultivated for thousands of years.
It has a unique taste and can be cooked in various ways.
Also, it's a powerhouse of many essential nutrients.
Parsnip, scientifically termed Pastinaca sativa, belongs to the Apaiaceae family. In terms of appearance, it's somewhat similar to carrot, celery, parsley, and more. It has a slightly nutty flavor, thus making for an amazing ingredient in various dishes. Also, when it comes to nutritional value, parsnip boasts an impressive amount of fiber, iron, zinc, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin K, vitamin B6, etc., along with lots of antioxidants.
Below, we have discussed some potential health benefits that parsnip has to offer.
May support digestion
Parsnip is an excellent source of dietary fiber. It aids in the movement of food along the intestine, and eventually improves the overall functioning of your digestive tract. It can also reduce your risk of gas, bloating, IBS, and several other digestion-related issues.
May aid in weight loss
Being low in calories, parsnip is beneficial for people struggling with obesity. Also, its high fiber content keeps you full for a long time, thus restricting you from overeating throughout the day. It has a high amount of water which, as per studies, may aid in your weight loss journey as well.
May boost immunity
Parsnip is packed with vitamin C which aids in white blood cell production. This, in turn, helps improve the overall functions of your immune system. Also, it has antioxidants that fight free radicals, thus keeping your immunity active all the time. Hence, regular intake of parsnip may reduce your risk of colds, flu, and many other viral diseases.
May improve bone strength
It's rich in minerals like zinc, calcium, and manganese, all of which are beneficial for your bone health. If eaten regularly, parsnip helps in bone mineralization and reduces the symptoms of arthritis. Also, it can treat some critical bone-related issues, such as osteoporosis, to some extent.
May enhance skin health
The high amount of vitamin C found in parsnip boosts collagen production, which is essential for your overall skin health. The antioxidants also contribute to the purpose, as they fight various types of damages to a significant extent. Regular consumption is linked to a lower risk of acne, wrinkles, fine lines, and more.
May promote heart functions
Parsnip is a rich source of potassium which helps regulate blood pressure levels. Also, its high fiber content significantly lowers LDL cholesterol levels in your blood. Both, in turn, improve the functions of your heart to a great extent. Many studies have indicated that people who eat parsnip daily are less likely to suffer from a heart attack.
Parsnip may also improve oral health, aid in enzyme production, support brain functions, boost eyesight, prevent anemia, treat respiratory illness, and reduce the risk of certain types of cancer.
