15 Best Root Vegetables

by John Staughton (BASc, BFA) last updated -

Root vegetables are found in cuisines all over the world. While they do share some basic characteristics, each one has a unique nutrient profile.

Root Vegetables

Root vegetables are known to be dense sources of minerals and nutrients, as well as dietary fiber and starchy carbohydrates. They represent an important staple food in many parts of the world, and also contain some unique antioxidants with impressive health benefits. By increasing energy levels and boosting vitamin intake, these have become known as some of the most important vegetables to include in your diet.

List of Best Root Vegetables

The best root vegetables to consume in order to improve overall health include carrot, celery, rutabaga, butternut squash, and taro root, among others.

Root vegetables, carrots, radishes, and beetroots.

Root vegetables are delicious and healthy. Photo Credit: Shutterstock

Radish

This vegetable possesses good amounts of magnesium, potassium, copper, folate, dietary fiber, and riboflavin, among others. It can help to improve the metabolism, lower blood pressure, and build strong bones when eaten regularly.

Turnip

Cruciferous vegetables with a high level of phytonutrients, primarily indoles, these basic vegetables are linked to lowering the blood pressure, strengthening the bones, lowering cholesterol levels, and lowering your risk of cardiovascular disease. [1]

Taro Root

This important starchy vegetable is packed with minerals, such as iron, magnesium, potassium, zinc, and copper, as well as a range of vitamins and antioxidants. It is known to be great as an energy booster, as well as reducing inflammation and improving immune system strength.

Artichoke

Being very low in saturated fat and cholesterol, but rich in B vitamins and minerals, this less common root vegetable can be prepared in a variety of ways to boost your metabolism and protect cardiovascular health. [2]

Butternut Squash

There is a good amount of beta-carotene found in butternut squash, and it is also known as a great immune booster. With high levels of fiber, this vegetable will also help to cut down on cholesterol levels and optimize digestive processes. [3]

Sweet Potatoes

Vitamin A, potassium, and vitamin C are found in high concentrations in these root vegetables, along with high levels of antioxidants, making this an ideal food for those with heart problems or risk of other chronic diseases. [4]

Carrot

High in lycopene, lutein, and zeaxanthin, among other important minerals, carrots can help to boost vision health and skin quality, as well as digestive issues. [5]

Winter Squash

The great antioxidants present in this root vegetable has the power to boost eye health by preventing cataract and improving the health of the cornea and retina.

Celery

While celery is mainly composed of water, the remaining contents are high levels of vitamin K, as well as various B vitamins, vitamin A, and vitamin C. The fiber content is also known to settle the stomach and promote healthy digestion. [6]

Asparagus

Boasting notable levels of iron, copper, potassium, and protein, this vegetable is easy to prepare and has a satisfying crunch. It also helps to stimulate circulation and lower blood pressure when regularly added to your diet. [7]

Beets

With thousands of years of history and an impressive level of phytonutrients, beets are known to help regulate hormones, control blood sugar, and lower inflammation. The nitrates found in these vegetables are also popular with endurance athletes for their energetic boost. [8]

Rutabaga

Being extremely high in vitamin C and dietary fiber, these vegetables are closely linked to the immune system and digestion. However, the zinc found in the vegetable can also help with cognition, mood, and stress levels. [9]

Daikon

There is calcium, potassium, magnesium, and various unique antioxidants found in daikon, making “Chinese radish” an excellent choice for boosting overall health. More specifically, it can detoxify the body and boost bone mineral density as you age. [10]

Chicory

While each variety has different nutrients, you can usually expect a very high level of vitamin C, vitamin E, potassium, and folate. Chicory is known to reduce inflammation and provide a sense of calmness, as it can help to balance hormone levels. [11]

Kohlrabi

Amongst root vegetables, this exotic cabbage cultivar is a great source of dietary fiber, B vitamin, vitamin C, potassium, and copper. It can aid in digestion.

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About the Author

John Staughton is a traveling writer, editor, publisher and photographer with English and Integrative Biology degrees from the University of Illinois in Champaign-Urbana (USA). He co-founded the literary journal, Sheriff Nottingham, and now serves as the Content Director for Stain’d Arts, a non-profit based in Denver, Colorado. On a perpetual journey towards the idea of home, he uses words to educate, inspire, uplift and evolve.

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