Eat Your Root Vegetables

Eat Your Root Vegetables

Root vegetables are exactly that – the root of the plant. Common root vegetables are: potatoes, sweet potatoes, carrots, onions, garlic, and beets.

Root vegetables (except potatoes and carrots) are typically overlooked when deciding what to have for dinner.

Why Choose Root Vegetables

A few reasons to add some to your dinner plate:

• high in vitamins, minerals and nutrients
• great source of fibre
• slow-digesting carbohydrates with low glycemic index
• naturally gluten-free

Choosing Root Vegetables

Since root vegetables absorb their nutrients from the soil, toxins from the ground can be absorbed too.   When choosing the best, look for vegetables that are firm, blemish free and grown from organic crops.

Storing Root Vegetables

Store them in cool dark place.  You can store them in the refrigerator as well.  When storing them in the refrigerator ensure to cover and seal them in a paper bag and place them in one of the drawers.

Exception:  Turnips and potatoes should be stored in a cool, dark place out of the refrigerator.

Best Root Veggies

Sweet Potatoes

They may be called “sweet,” however, they are lower on the glycemic index than regular white potatoes, they also help stabilize your blood sugar better.

Carrots

One of the most popular veggies.  It can be eaten raw, cooked or juiced.  Carrots provide vitamin A, C, D, E and K as well as magnesium, potassium and calcium.

Parsnips

It is a member of the carrot family.  Parsnips have a great source of fibre, folate, potassium and vitamin C.

Beets

Beets naturally alkalize and detoxify the body.  Beets may even help your endurance and recovery time after exercise.

Butternut Squash

Contains beta-carotene and helps boosts your immune system. The darker orange hue of the skin, the higher the content of beta-carotene.

My top 3 picks

My top 3 root vegetables are:

1. Carrots:
   I eat so many I am surprised I have not turned orange
2. Sweet Potatoes:
   Baked on the BBQ or cut up into wedges and baked in the oven, Mmmmmm!
3. Parsnips:
   Cut into slices and roasted in the oven with a little curry and garlic.  Delicious!

What are your top 3 root vegetables?  List your root veggies in the comments below.

Was the information helpful?  I would greatly appreciate if you comment below and share on Facebook.

 

 

 

 

Karen Fleury’s – Clean Eating With Benefits
Skype:   k.fleury73
E-Mail: karen@cleaneatingwithbenefits.com

“Providing information on clean eating and living a healthier lifestyle!”

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