Is Radish Good Or Bad For Diabetics? A Review By Nutrition Professionals

 

Radishes are health-promoting vegetables from the Brassica family of plants and belong in a healthy diet. They are a low glycemic root vegetable with fiber, folate, vitamin C, potassium, and many other nutrients that are appropriate for diabetics and pre-diabetics. There are many types of radish including daikon, watermelon, black, and red radish. 

They can be eaten raw or cooked, sprouted, or juiced. While there are no clinical studies evaluating radish’s effect on diabetes, there is animal and laboratory evidence of anti-diabetic properties of radish. For example, the radish has compounds that can promote glucose(sugar) uptake into cells. One way is by improving the body’s use of insulin, which is one of the primary keys to moving glucose from the blood into the muscle, where it is needed. 

This effect may be due to the antioxidant compounds found in radish called anthocyanins and indol-3-carbinol. Anthocyanins have been shown to improve vascular health and function, which can potentially reduce risk of cardiovascular disease and improve health outcomes for individuals with diabetes.

Disclaimer: This is for information purpose only, and should not be considered as a substitute for medical expertise. These are opinions from an external panel of individual doctors or nutritionists and not to be considered as opinion of Microsoft. Please seek professional help regarding any health conditions or concerns. Medical advice varies across region. Advice from professionals outside your region should be used at your own discretion. Or you should contact a local health professional.