Radish Health Benefits, Risks & Tips

A member of the cruciferous family, the radish is closely related to cabbage, kale, turnips, and cauliflower. While not especially high in most essential nutrients, radishes are tasty as well as low in calories, making them ideal for snacking and as a spicy addition to salads, soups, and vegetable side dishes. Summer radishes have a more intense peppery flavor than those cultivated during spring or fall. Although the bright red globe variety is the best-known in North America, other types include black radishes, daikons, and white icicles.

Health Benefits

Provides some nutrients but few calories.
A fair source of vitamin C, radishes also contain small amounts of iron, potassium, and folate. Five medium-size raw radishes provide 5 mg of vitamin C and yield only 5 calories, making them an ideal snack for those trying to lose weight.

May lower cancer risk.
Like other cruciferous vegetables, radishes supply sulfurous compounds that may protect against cancer. One study of about 1,500 people in Poland found a particularly strong decrease in the risk of stomach cancer among those who consumed the most radishes and onions.

Health Risks

Gas.
Radishes can cause bloating and gas in some people, especially those sensitive to other types of cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower.

Allergies.
Radishes contain salicylates—compounds similar to the active ingredient in aspirin: Many people sensitive to aspirin may suffer an allergic reaction to radishes.

Eating Tips
• Dip radishes into peanut sauce for a spicy snack.
• Add some grated radish to coleslaw.
• Toss slivered radishes with sautéed asparagus pieces.

QUICK TIP:
Skip the singe
To avoid the “hot” flavor found in some varieties of radish, simply peel the skin.

Buying Tips
• The peak season for radishes spans from April to July, but most varieties are available year-round.
• When selecting red globe radishes, avoid the larger ones if possible, as they may be pithy.
• A bright color indicates freshness.
• If there are leaves on the stems, make sure they are green and crisp.
• Regardless of which variety of radish you are buying, the vegetables should feel solid and have an unblemished surface.

Storing Tips
• Unless the radishes are going to be served the same day, you should remove any leaves and tops. They will stay fresh longer without the tops.
• If they are not already packaged, store radishes in plastic bags.
• They will keep for about 2 weeks.