Swedes are related to cabbage. However, they do not look anything like their relative. Most of the time, they are mistaken for turnips. The inclusion of swedes in your diet is a wonderful idea because they are loaded with various nutrients that your body requires for its proper functioning as well as optimization of health.

Read on to know more about swedes, most especially the many health benefits they offer. After checking out this article, repost to let your loved ones know why they should also consume swedes on a regular basis.

Just like what’s mentioned earlier, many people confuse swedes with turnips. Well, no one can blame them as the said root vegetables kind of look the same. However, swedes are generally larger and rounder than turnips. They also boast of tougher skin that can be white, pink or purple in color, and their flesh is white or yellowish.

Wondering how swedes got their name? Simple: they originated from Sweden. Many years ago in Sweden, these vegetables that grow below ground level were only fed to cattle. But now everyone knows better — swedes are perfect for human consumption, too, because of their impressive nutritional profile.

Here are some of the reasons why it is a good idea for you to consume swedes on a regular basis:

They Toughen Up Your Immune System

Swedes are loaded with vitamin C which, as everybody knows, is essential for having the immune system strengthened. It only means that the consumption of swedes is something that can help lower your risk of being down with the common cold and flu, even when they are in season and practically everyone around you suffers from them!

They Also Beautify Your Skin

Vitamin C in swedes is not only an immune-booster, but also a skin-beautifier. That’s because it is actually an antioxidant that neutralizes age-accelerating free radicals. In addition, vitamin C that you can obtain from swedes is necessitated for the production of collagen, a type of protein that makes the skin firm and less vulnerable to becoming wrinkled.

They May Lower Heart Disease Risk

A couple of reasons exist why swedes are very good for lowering a person’s risk of having heart disease, heart attack and stroke. First, they supply the body with potassium, which is a mineral that helps keep hypertension or high blood pressure at bay. Second, swedes have fiber that removes cholesterol, keeping the arteries from clogging up.

They Regulate Movement of the Bowels

Speaking of fiber, the regular intake of swedes is perfect for those who suffer from constipation or prone to encountering it. According to doctors, fiber is a nutrient that facilitates the evacuation of the bowels. If you really want to fend off constipation, pair your intake of swedes and other fiber-rich foods with exercise and plenty of fluids.

They Ward Off Osteoporosis

If you want to keep your bones strong and prevent osteoporosis from pestering you in the future, then include swedes in your diet as often as you can. It’s for the fact that these root crops supply your body with calcium as well as other nutrients that help strengthen the bones, such as phosphorus, manganese, magnesium and zinc.

They May Prevent Cancer From Striking

Lastly, the regular intake of swedes is a great idea most especially if you are terrified of the big C. According to experts, swedes are packed with antioxidants called glucosinolates. Numerous scientific investigations have shown that glucosinolates in swedes are capable of preventing cancer cells and tumors from growing.