Kohlrabi is a low-calorie, nutrient-dense vegetable that is becoming increasingly popular among health-conscious individuals. In fact, 100 grams of kohlrabi contains only 27 calories, making it an excellent addition to any diet.
But kohlrabi is more than just a low-calorie food. It's also packed with vitamins, minerals, and other important nutrients that are essential for good health. Some of these nutrients include vitamin C, potassium, and fiber.
In this article, we'll explore the many health benefits of kohlrabi and provide you with some easy and delicious ways to incorporate this nutritious vegetable into your diet.
Kohlrabi is Low in Calories but High in Nutrients
One of the great things about kohlrabi is that it is packed with nutrients but low in calories. As we mentioned earlier, a 100-gram serving of kohlrabi contains only 27 calories, which makes it a great choice for those who are looking to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight. In addition to being low in calories, kohlrabi is also rich in essential nutrients like vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps to protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals, while potassium is essential for maintaining healthy blood pressure and heart function. And because kohlrabi is high in fiber, it can help to keep you feeling full and satisfied for longer periods of time, which can be helpful for weight loss and weight management.
Kohlrabi May Help Improve Digestion
In addition to its nutritional benefits, kohlrabi may also be beneficial for digestive health. That's because kohlrabi is naturally high in fiber, which can help to promote regularity and prevent constipation. Additionally, kohlrabi contains compounds called glucosinolates, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties that may help to soothe the digestive tract. Kohlrabi can also help to support the growth of good bacteria in your gut, which is essential for proper digestion and immune function. So if you're looking to improve your digestive health, adding kohlrabi to your diet may be a good place to start.
Kohlrabi Has Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Inflammation is a natural response in your body that helps to protect your cells from injury or infection. However, chronic inflammation can be harmful and may contribute to a number of chronic diseases like heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. Fortunately, kohlrabi contains compounds like glucosinolates and isothiocyanates, which have been shown to have potent anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds can help to reduce inflammation in your body, which may help to reduce your risk of chronic disease.
Kohlrabi May Help Lower Blood Sugar Levels
For individuals with diabetes or pre-diabetes, managing blood sugar levels is essential for good health. Fortunately, kohlrabi may be helpful in this regard. That's because kohlrabi is a good source of fiber, which can help to slow down the absorption of sugar in your bloodstream. This can help to prevent spikes in blood sugar levels and may be particularly beneficial for individuals with diabetes.
Kohlrabi May Help Lower Cholesterol Levels
High cholesterol is a major risk factor for heart disease, the leading cause of death worldwide. Fortunately, kohlrabi may be helpful in lowering cholesterol levels and reducing your risk of heart disease. One study found that consuming kohlrabi extract for eight weeks led to significant reductions in total cholesterol, LDL (bad) cholesterol, and triglycerides in individuals with high cholesterol levels. This is thought to be due to kohlrabi's high fiber content, which can help to reduce the absorption of cholesterol in your intestine.
Kohlrabi May Help Improve Heart Health
In addition to its cholesterol-lowering properties, kohlrabi may also be beneficial for heart health in other ways. For example, kohlrabi is a good source of potassium, which is essential for maintaining healthy blood pressure levels. High blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart disease, and consuming potassium-rich foods like kohlrabi can help to keep your blood pressure in check. Additionally, kohlrabi's anti-inflammatory properties may also help to reduce your risk of heart disease and other chronic diseases.
Kohlrabi May Boost Immune Function
Your immune system plays a vital role in protecting you from illness and infection. Fortunately, kohlrabi may be helpful in boosting immune function and keeping you healthy. Kohlrabi is packed with vitamin C, which is known to support immune function by helping to produce white blood cells that can fight off infection. Additionally, kohlrabi's anti-inflammatory properties may also help to reduce inflammation in your body, which can be beneficial for your immune system.
Kohlrabi Contains Antioxidants
Antioxidants are compounds that help to protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can contribute to the development of chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease. Fortunately, kohlrabi is a good source of antioxidants like vitamin C and carotenoids, which can help to neutralize free radicals and reduce your risk of chronic disease. Additionally, kohlrabi's anti-inflammatory properties may also help to protect your cells and reduce inflammation in your body.
Kohlrabi May Have Anti-Cancer Properties
Cancer is a complex disease that can be caused by a variety of factors. While there is no single food or nutrient that can prevent cancer, some foods may have anti-cancer properties that may help to reduce your risk. Kohlrabi is one such food. It contains compounds like glucosinolates and isothiocyanates, which have been shown to have anti-cancer properties in test-tube and animal studies. While more research is needed to determine the extent of these benefits in humans, adding kohlrabi to your diet can be a helpful step in reducing your risk of cancer.
Kohlrabi is Versatile and Easy to Prepare
One of the great things about kohlrabi is that it is versatile and easy to prepare. It can be eaten raw or cooked, and can be used in a variety of recipes. For example, you can slice kohlrabi thinly and add it to salads or use it as a crunchy topping for tacos or sandwiches. You can also roast kohlrabi in the oven with some olive oil and seasonings, or steam it and mash it like you would potatoes. So if you're looking for a nutritious and delicious addition to your diet, give kohlrabi a try!
Kohlrabi is a powerhouse of nutrients and health benefits that should be included in any healthy diet.
5 FAQ About Kohlrabi
1. What is kohlrabi?
Kohlrabi is a vegetable that belongs to the cruciferous family, which also includes broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage. It has a round shape and a tough outer layer that needs to be peeled before eating.
2. What are the health benefits of kohlrabi?
Kohlrabi is a low-calorie vegetable that is high in fiber, vitamins C and B6, and potassium. It also contains antioxidants that can help to promote overall health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer.
3. How can kohlrabi be prepared?
Kohlrabi can be eaten raw or cooked. When raw, it can be sliced and used in salads, while cooked kohlrabi can be roasted, boiled, or sautéed. It can also be mashed, pureed, or used in soups and stews.
4. What does kohlrabi taste like?
Kohlrabi has a mild, slightly sweet taste and a crunchy texture. When cooked, it takes on a softer texture and a more subtly sweet flavor.
5. How should kohlrabi be stored?
Kohlrabi should be stored in the refrigerator in a plastic bag to prevent moisture loss. It can last for up to two weeks when stored properly. It is best to peel kohlrabi just before using it to ensure that it stays fresh.