Salsify is a root vegetable that comes in a couple of varieties. White salsify, just like what it’s called suggests, is very pale in color and is said to have originated in France and Italy. Black salsify, on the other hand, is known to have come from Spain initially (that’s why it is sometimes referred to as “Spanish salsify”) and is now actually favored in many parts of the world than the white variety. Unfortunately, both kinds of salsify can be rarely found outside of Europe because it tends to thrive only in the most perfect environment for it.
But in case you come across salsify, go get your hands on a bunch of it. The root vegetable can be roasted, pan fried, or turned into soup or fritters, which is preferred by many. It also goes very well with duck and lamb. The following are just a few of the several health benefits that you can obtain from consuming salsify:
It Helps Ward Off High Blood Pressure
There are a couple of reasons why the consumption of salsify can help regulate your blood pressure. First, it contains good amounts of potassium, which is a mineral known to lower blood pressure by causing the blood vessels to dilate. Second, salsify is very low in sodium so it won’t make your blood pressure soar.
It Regulates Your Bowel Movement
Just like many other root crops on the planet, salsify is an excellent source of fiber. The addition of the said vegetable in your diet helps promote regular bowel movement. In other words, eating it can keep you from ending up constipated. With the toxins in the GI tract removed efficiently, you can feel healthier and more energetic.
It Supports Beneficial Bacteria in the Gut
Majority of the fiber content of salsify is called inulin, according to experts. Inulin is actually a prebiotic, which means that it encourages the growth and multiplication of good bacteria present in the intestines. Having top-notch amounts of beneficial microbes in the gut is not only good for your digestion but your overall health, too.
It Keeps Iron-Deficiency Anemia at Bay
One of the nutrients found in every serving of salsify is iron, a mineral so important for the production of red blood cells. RBCs for short, these blood components are the ones that carry oxygen molecules. Consuming iron-rich foods such as salsify on a regular basis can help prevent iron-deficiency anemia.
It Helps Strengthen Your Bones
Calcium found in salsify, as everyone knows, is important for keeping the bones strong. However, there are also a few other minerals in the said root vegetable that are role players in making your bones strong and healthy, thus warding off osteoporosis. Some of them include phosphorous, copper, manganese and magnesium.
It Makes You More Immune to Infections
The inclusion of salsify in your diet on a regular basis is good for your immune system. That’s because it supplies your body with vitamin C. By eating salsify and other vitamin C-rich foods, you can considerably lower your risk of being down with the common cold, flu and other types of infections.
It Promotes Younger-Looking Skin
We all know that vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps delay skin aging signs. What’s more, vitamin C also helps in the synthesis of collagen, which is a protein type that makes your skin supple, thus reducing fine lines and wrinkles. If you care about the way you look, you should definitely get your hands on some salsify!
It Also Reduces Your Risk of Deadly Cancer
Last but not least, experts say that consuming salsify regularly may help keep cancer at bay. Again, it has something to do with the fact that the root vegetable is packed with antioxidants. Antioxidants help minimize oxidative stress, which is linked to the development of cancer cells.
