5 Exciting Reasons to Discover Kohlrabi
DIANE COUPAL
Move over kale. Kohlrabi is about to enjoy a resurgence in popularity and with good reason! Kohlrabi, also known as German turnip, is a round, tuberous vegetable belonging to the brassica family: the same family as broccoli, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower and kale. Its taste can be described as the meeting of broccoli and cabbage.
Here are 5 exciting reasons why I believe kohlrabi is worth adding to your diet:
1. Builds the Immune System
One cup of kohlrabi delivers 140% of your recommended dietary allowance of vitamin C. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps to protect our immune cells by neutralizing free radical activity. It also activates natural killer cell function and lymphocyte production.
2. Assists with Weight Loss
Kohlrabi is a low-calorie, nutrient-dense vegetable containing vitamin C, vitamin B6, potassium, copper and manganese. This low-glycemic vegetable contains slow-digesting carbohydrates and assists with weight management by helping to stabilize blood sugar levels.
3. Manages Blood Pressure
Kohlrabi contains potassium, a vasodilator which helps to increase blood flow in your arteries. Increased potassium levels assist with lowering blood pressure and reducing your risk for stroke and heart disease.
4. Contributes to Digestive Health
Kohlrabi contains lots of fiber which supports your digestive system by adding stool bulk and promoting regular bowel movements. This helps to clear toxins from your body in a timely manner so that they are not reabsorbed by the intestinal wall.
5. Protects against Cancer
Kohlrabi is a rich source of glucosinolate, an antioxidant compound which is broken down to produce phytochemicals that are thought to inhibit the initiation of cancer formation.
How Do I use Kohlrabi?
Kohlrabi is a versatile vegetable that is easy to incorporate into your meals. Once the outer portion of the tuber is peeled, it can be grated into a salad or made into a slaw. Try it steamed or roasted. Add kohlrabi to your favourite stir-fry, fritter or soup recipes. Don’t discard the leaves though as they are delicious sautéed in coconut oil.
Take a second look at this strange-looking vegetable the next time you are in the grocery store. It just might become one of your favourite veggies!
How Would You Use Kohlrabi?
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Diane Coupal is a Registered Holistic Nutritionist and founder of Mindful Nutrition Ottawa. Blogger, recipe developer and nutrition counsellor. Diane is passionate about educating people about the benefits of eating a whole, natural foods diet.