Let’s get down to the root, and dig into why root vegetables are so good for our bodies. Plus, learn the best way to cook with them.

1. TURNIPS 
For cooking
Enjoy this veggie in salads and stir-fries, or roasted or steamed.
For your body
A fantastic source of vitamin C, an immune- boosting agent and essential dietary requirement.

2. GARLIC
For cooking
Its intense flavour complements most dishes.
For your body
It is said to lower blood cholesterol and prevent plaque build-up in arteries.
Did you know?
It’s a natural antibiotic.

3. ONION
For cooking
As with garlic, its a base for most dishes.
For your body
It lowers cholesterol, prevents diabetes and maintains skin health.
Did you know?
The outer layers of the onion contain the most nutrients.

4. TURMERIC
For cooking 
Used in curries and spice mixes.
For your body
It contains curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory effects and is a strong antioxidant.

5. CARROTS
For cooking
Wonderfully versatile option for many dishes and recipes.
For your body
They contain an incredible amount of the antioxidant beta-carotene and vitamin A, the minerals responsible for keeping your skin and eyes healthy.

6. BEETROOT
For cooking
The perfect side to meats or as added flavour in a salad.
For your body
It aids blood circulation and contains minerals such as iron, calcium, folate and potassium.
Did you know?
It has the highest sugar content of any veg.

7. FENNEL
For cooking
With its aniseed flavour and scent, it is often used in herb and spice mixes.
Did you know?
It’s one of the oldest cultivated vegetables.

8. POTATOES
For cooking
Everything, all day, any day!
For your body
High in potassium and low in sodium, while providing your body with a high source of energy.

9. RADISHES
For cooking
Sweet, pungent and peppery, these can be enjoyed cooked, raw or pickled.
For your body
A powerful detoxifier that assists with gut-related issues, weight loss and urinary disorders.

Words: Staff writer
Photography: Unsplash

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