Health Benefits of Rutabaga
The Rutabaga plant is a cross between a cabbage and a turnip and originated in Russia. They are grown throughout North America and the world. Another name for the rutabaga is the yellow turnip.
High in Fiber
Rutabagas are high in dietary fiber which is known to aid in digestion and protect against disease. People who eat enough fiber have a lower risk of colon cancer, Type 2 diabetes and constipation. One cup of rutabaga contains nearly 20% for women and 14% for men of the recommended amount of dietary fiber per day.
Lowers Blood Pressure
Rutabagas contain potassium which can help to lower the blood pressure by reducing the stress and contractions of blood vessels. Potassium is a vasodilator, which allows for easier passage of blood while increasing the oxygenation to vital organs and throughout the system. This lowers the chance of clotting. Potassium can also help to lower cholesterol levels, which lowers the risk of strokes, atherosclerosis and heart attacks.
Cancer Fighter
The rutabaga contains antioxidants and has a rare sulfur containing compound called glucosinolates. These are known to reduce the growth of cancerous tumors in the body. Rutabagas also contain high levels of carotenoids and vitamin C, which both act as antioxidants that battle the effects of free radicals. They help to prevent healthy cells from mutating into cancerous ones.
Immune System Boost
A single serving of rutabaga contains more than half the required daily allotment of vitamin C. Vitamin C helps to stimulate the immune system to produce white blood cells which helps fight off illness and infections. Vitamin C also plays an important part in the production of collagen which contributes to the development and healing of skin tissue, muscle and blood vessels.
Bone Health
Rutabagas are rich in several important minerals that are crucial for the creation and maintenance of bone tissues such as, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus and zinc. Consuming rutabaga may help lower your risk of the common age-related disorder such as osteoporosis.
Does rutabaga have a month?
September is Rutabaga Month.
How long does it take a rutabaga to mature?
It takes roughly 80 to 100 days for a rutabaga to grow from a seed.
Are rutabagas safe for pregnant women to eat?
Root vegetables such as rutabagas are great for a pregnant women, but pregnant women are cautioned while consuming root vegetables due to the risk of contracting toxoplasmosis. Toxoplasmosis is an infection caused by the parasite toxoplasma gondii, which is present in contaminated soil. You can double check with your primary care provider.
