Daikon: health benefits and harms

Daikon is very popular in Asia, especially in Japan, and this culture has been grown here for about 1000 years. In Japan, the right approach to choosing foods for regular nutrition is very important, so the vegetable occupies one of the main places in a standard diet. All this is no accident - daikon is rich in useful substances and at the same time has a very balanced composition.

What is daikon

Daikon is a root crop that looks like a radish, but, as a rule, it has a larger size. The first to cultivate this culture were the Chinese, but at the moment, Japan is the leader in cultivation. The word daikon itself is translated from Japanese as “big root”. Daikon fruits can be very large, for example, some can reach half a meter in length and still weigh more than 5 kilograms. The shape and color of the fruits may also vary, since these parameters depend on the variety. For example, a vegetable similar to a giant white carrot is called Aokubi, and one that is shaped like a turnip, while it has a pink core, is classified as Sakuradzima.

In Eastern European countries, the most common varieties are Terminator and Caesar, here they received simpler and more understandable names - sweet radish and white radish. Most often, daikon is used in natural or milled form. In eastern countries, the product is pickled, included in salads, and also used as a side dish for stewed meat or fried fish dishes.

What is the difference between daikon and radish

The daikon contains mustard essential oils in a minimal amount, so this product is much more tender and tastier than the radish we are used to. The pulp of the vegetable is crisp and refreshing, in the upper part the taste is sweetish, and near the root it is more acute. Species with small root vegetables tend to have a milder and sweeter taste.

Composition and calorie content

100 g of product contains:

• calories - 21 kcal;
• proteins - 1.2 g;
• fats - 0 g;
• carbohydrates - 4.1 g;
• sugar - 2.5 g;
• Vitamin C - 22 mg;
• folate - 28.0 mcg;
• calcium - 27 mg;
• iron - 0.4 mg;
• magnesium - 16 mg;
• phosphorus - 23 mg;
• potassium - 230 mg;
• copper - 0.1 mg.

The product contains vitamins A, B, H and PP. The vegetable is rich in various minerals, isorodanic acid, as well as enzymes that help the body digest starchy foods.

Useful properties of daikon

General benefit

1. Supports airway health. Daikon has antibacterial and antiviral properties, which makes it an excellent product for maintaining healthy airways and lungs. Infections, as a rule, provoke an increase in the formation of mucus, which can enter the respiratory tract and make breathing difficult. This problem is especially familiar to asthmatics or people suffering from chronic allergies. The daikon contains bioflavonoids - substances that improve lung function and reduce the frequency of asthma attacks.
2. Normalizes digestion. The daikon contains amylase and protease, enzymes that are involved in the breakdown of carbohydrates and proteins. Also, the vegetable boasts other enzymes responsible for the breakdown of fats. These factors make the product an excellent food, especially for people with digestive disorders. Daikon is also rich in fiber, which is extremely beneficial for maintaining healthy bowel function and preventing constipation.Dietary fiber helps retain water in the feces, which contributes to a softer passage of the masses through the digestive tract.
3. Supports kidney health. The kidneys are responsible for filtering the blood, recirculating water, and supplying important nutrients to the bloodstream. Another important function of this body is the removal of water-soluble waste. But the kidneys are not always able to process a sufficient amount of fluid, so there is a decrease in the filtration rate. In such cases, it is necessary to use external drugs, medications, or foods that may contribute to urination. Daikons just relate to them, because they help to naturally stimulate diuresis. This saves the body from the accumulation of waste in the kidneys and prevents the occurrence of kidney stones.
4. Reduces the risk of cancer. Studies have shown that daikon can be used as a preventive product against oncology, especially when it comes to stomach cancer. This product helps to remove the so-called nitrosamines, highly carcinogenic molecules that enter the body with smoked foods. It also contains numerous phenolic compounds that increase overall cancer resistance and reduce the harmful effects of free radicals on cells.
5. Strengthens the immune system. Daikon is rich in vitamin C, one of the most effective nutrients that help strengthen immunity. Vitamin C helps the body in the production of white blood cells and has an antioxidant effect. Oxidation damages DNA and often provokes the formation of defective cells, which can eventually become malignant. With regular use of daikon, these harmful effects can be avoided. It can also be noted that the body begins to fight infections more effectively, so the course of the disease is reduced, and the risk of complications is minimized.
6. Helps maintain blood pressure. The daikon contains potassium, a mineral that is involved in the regulation of blood pressure and supports the health of blood vessels. Potassium helps to relax blood vessels, and also helps to remove the accumulated water in the body, as a result of which normal blood pressure remains.
7. Helps blood formation. The process of formation, development and maturation of blood requires the participation of various vitamins and minerals. Among them are iron and copper, which are just contained in the daikon, and in the optimal amount for this. This vegetable can also help prevent anemia and increase energy levels by improving the supply of oxygen to cells.
8. Supports brain and nervous system health. The causes of impaired functioning of the nervous system and brain are often excessive stress and oxidation. At the same time, substances that destroy brain cells and provoke a decrease in cognitive functions begin to be produced in the body. One such compound is homocysteine. To prevent such conditions, it is recommended to include daikon in your diet. The folates contained in this vegetable break down homocysteine, so it cannot perform its function that is harmful to the body. Regular use of daikon will help meet the body's folic acid needs and reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson’s.
9. It has anti-inflammatory properties. The anti-inflammatory compounds that are found in abundance in daikon juice, as well as in the roots and leaves of the plant, help reduce inflammation in the body.The vegetable has a number of positive effects on the body, supports heart health, reduces the risk of arthritis, helps in the treatment of gout, and also relieves pain from injuries and muscle strain.
10. Supports bone health. Daikon is an excellent source of calcium. It is an essential substance for bone health, as it helps prevent osteoporosis and other bone diseases. The inclusion of daikon in your diet will significantly slow down the process of bone aging and help to lead a healthy lifestyle.
11. Good for skin. Regular intake of daikon helps prevent wrinkles and dark spots, improves skin color, and regulates blood circulation.

For women

Women, as a rule, are concerned not only with their health, but also with their appearance. Daikon is the right product to solve both problems. It will help to cope with extra pounds, support the work of processes associated with the breakdown of fats, and also cleanse the body of toxins and toxins. Experts recommend using daikon for women during the menstrual cycle, especially in cases of heavy blood loss.

For men

Regular use of daikon will significantly increase male potency and will have a general strengthening effect on the body. This product will be saturated with all the necessary minerals and vitamins, which will have a positive effect on sexual desire. Daikon stimulates blood flow in the genitals, so this vegetable is especially useful for men who work at the computer, or those who spend most of their lives driving a car.

During pregnancy

During pregnancy, women, as a rule, review the already familiar diet, so you need to be sure that all the products that are on the menu will not harm. Daikon is not prohibited for use by pregnant women, especially in the first stage. The folate found in vegetables is one of the most important nutrients that help ensure a healthy pregnancy.

This product also has diuretic properties, helps relieve puffiness and frees the body of toxins. Minerals help maintain the normal condition of the expectant mother. But it is also important to note the limitations associated with the use of this product. Daikon may stimulate smooth muscle activation, leading to an increased risk of abortion. Also, sometimes there may be discomfort in the intestines due to excessive gas formation. If you consume large amounts of vegetables, sleep disturbances or irritability may occur. Therefore, it is recommended to eat no more than 100 g once every 3-4 days.

When breastfeeding

Nursing mothers are not recommended to include daikon in their diet for at least 2 months after delivery. Starting from 3-4 months, the baby’s internal organs involved in the digestion process will already be able to normally perceive changes in the composition of mother’s milk. Sometimes children refuse to eat if they feel that the taste has changed. In any case, daikon during breastfeeding will benefit the body of the mother and baby. But the product must be administered in small portions and monitor the reaction of the baby.

For kids

Although the daikon contains almost no mustard oil, it will not be easy for the child’s body to digest and absorb all the fiber that is contained in this vegetable. Fresh product is allowed to be included in the children's diet from 3 years. You need to start with small portions.

When losing weight

Good digestion is the key to effective loss of extra pounds without harm to health. Daikon is an excellent product that will help normalize digestion and contribute to a more effective removal of toxins and toxins from the body. It is also worth noting that this vegetable contains very little cholesterol, carbohydrates and calories, but it is also rich in fiber and other nutrients, which make it an ideal tool for weight loss. The product contains only 21 kcal, so it can be included in any diet.Fiber saturates the body well, relieves hunger, cleanses the intestines, stimulates the digestive system and accelerates metabolism. In this case, the use of daikon should be limited in case of problems with the digestive system.

Daikon in medicine

Daikon is also used in the medical field. For example, from the roots of this plant make means for the treatment of various disorders in the body. Juice and foliage can be used to treat constipation. For faster and more effective healing of purulent wounds lotions from the pulp of this vegetable are suitable. It will be enough to grind the fruit on a grater and attach it to the damaged area.

Daikon is also used to get rid of arrhythmias. The product has antibacterial and antiviral properties, so it is sometimes used to treat colds.

With diabetes

Daikon is allowed to be included in the diet menu for diabetes, since the vegetable does not contribute to an increase in blood sugar. This product has properties that slow down the absorption of sugars and maintain the stability of insulin. These factors have a significant impact on the course of the disease and prevent potential complications.

Important: Daikon's glycemic index - 15 units.

With pancreatitis

Experts confidently declare that daikon is an unacceptable product for pancreatitis. Moreover, this applies to all stages of the course of the disease, that is, during remission, and even more so during an exacerbation, this product can not be eaten.

With gastritis

With exacerbation of gastritis, daikon is strictly contraindicated for use. But during the transitional period of the disease or in remission, the restrictions are relaxed. In this case, it is necessary to consider the type of gastritis.

With increased acidity, foods that stimulate gastric secretion should be excluded from the diet. Daikon is also included in the group of these products, so you should not add it to your menu. However, if the acidity in the stomach is reduced, then daikon is allowed, but only during a period of persistent remission and in small portions. The patient needs to monitor his reaction to the product. If after eating any discomfort occurs, then you will have to refuse it.

With gout

Gout occurs as a result of accumulation of deposits of uric acid crystals in soft tissues or joints. Sometimes this unhealthy condition leads to other diseases, for example, arthritis, which manifests itself in the form of edema, stiffness and joint pain. Daikon has very few purines, substances that increase uric acid levels and aggravate gout symptoms. Thus, consuming low purine foods can help prevent deterioration. It is important to understand that daikon cannot serve as a medicine or a remedy for the treatment of gout, so you should not use it instead of the drugs intended for this.

Daikon in cosmetology

In addition to the fact that daikon helps cleanse the body from the inside, it also copes with cleansing the skin. In the field of cosmetology, juice and mashed vegetables are often used. Other ingredients can be used with this product, depending on the type of skin. For example, for oily skin, a remedy with cucumber or aloe juice is suitable, and for dry skin, you can use sour cream or olive oil, this will give additional hydration.

Daikon improves skin health for several reasons:

1. Vitamins A, K and C and antioxidants contained in the vegetable protect the skin from various skin diseases and inflammations, and also stimulate cell regeneration.
2. Vitamin C, phosphorus and zinc support the freshness of the skin for a long period of time.
3. Water is also present in the vegetable, which helps to avoid peeling and dry skin.
4. Iron is a mineral that strengthens the skin, hair and nails.
5. Daikon is rich in fiber, which helps to remove toxins from the body, which makes the skin cleaner.
6. The vegetable has disinfecting properties, so this product can be used as an effective treatment for insect bites, and it also helps to get rid of acne and blackheads.

Harm and contraindications

In addition to benefits, daikon has properties harmful to the human body. Daikon is contraindicated for use by people suffering from diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. The vegetable contains hard-to-digest fiber, which can trigger flatulence and indigestion.

Also, this product should not be eaten with a stomach ulcer or with gastritis. In the absence of the listed contraindications, daikon can be used, but only in moderation.

How to choose and store daikon

When choosing a daikon, you need to pay attention to the skin, it should be holistic and shine a little. When pressed on the fetus, it should not be too soft, since in this case the vegetable is most likely already lethargic. It is also advisable to see the inside of the fetus, so if possible you need to cut it. A quality vegetable has moist and uniform flesh.

Fresh vegetables are allowed to be stored both in the refrigerator and in the cellar. The main condition is the minimum amount of light and heat. For storage, a box or box is suitable, it is important that sawdust or sand are poured at the bottom. This will help the vegetables not dry out and maintain freshness for a longer time. In such conditions, daikon can be stored for 5–6 months, depending on the variety.

Some varieties are less mature, therefore they cannot retain their properties for more than one and a half to two months, others, on the contrary, are more durable. If the fetus gives the first signs of decay, then it is already spoiled. If the vegetable is stored in the refrigerator, then each fruit should be wrapped with a film, and it is necessary to make holes in it in order to ensure normal air circulation. This procedure will help extend shelf life and avoid air condensation. It is recommended to regularly check vegetables, throw them too soft and rotten. Sometimes a dish requires only one part of the fruit, while the second remains unused. In this case, the remaining half should be wrapped in tape and put back in the refrigerator, in the vegetable section.

If it is not possible to store the product neither in the refrigerator, nor in the cellar, then this can be done right on the balcony. The main thing is to cover the daikon so that it does not freeze.

What can be prepared from daikon: recipes

There is a fairly wide range of dishes, which include daikon. Juicy fruits can be stewed, pickled, and also added to soups and salads. Before cooking, wash the vegetable and remove the edges on both sides. Then the root crop is peeled, it is important to cut it off at the very top, removing a small layer, since it is the peel that contains many useful substances.

Daikon can also be used as decoration for the table. Despite the fact that daikon is used in different forms, the greatest benefit can be obtained from the raw product. For example, an excellent snack will come out of a root crop chopped on a coarse grater with the addition of lemon juice and herbs.

A variety of salads can also be made from this vegetable. Cabbage, cucumbers, carrots, olives, tomatoes are suitable for daikon.It can be included in cottage cheese and cheese dishes, as well as used with meat, such as beef and corn. Vegetables are also great for desserts. They can be mixed with fruits, nuts and honey. It should be borne in mind that dishes with chopped daikon fruits must be eaten almost immediately, since their taste is quickly lost.

Chicken Salad with Daikon

Ingredients:

• chicken breast - 1 pc.;
• daikon - 1 pc.;
• tomatoes - 3 pcs.;
• onion (red) - 1 pc.;
• garlic - 2 tooth;
• cucumbers - 1 pc.;
• lemon - 0.5 pcs.;
• yogurt (natural) - 250 g;
• dill.

How to cook:

1. Put the chicken breast in boiling water over a slow fire. Cover and cook for 50-60 minutes. It is better not to remove the skin from the breast and not remove the bone, as this will give the meat more tenderness.
2. Peel the daikon and grind it on a grater (like a Korean carrot) or cut into strips. Dice tomatoes.
3. Prepare a salad dressing. Grind the cucumber on a coarse grater, add finely chopped garlic, yogurt, dill and squeeze lemon juice.
4. After the chicken meat has cooled, disassemble it into fibers.
5. Mix vegetables with meat, add dressing.

Pickled Carrots with Daikon

Ingredients:

• water - 1 tbsp .;
• vinegar - 0.25 st .;
• sugar - 2 tbsp;
• salt - 2 tsp;
• carrots - 250 g;
• daikon - 250 g.

How to cook:

1. Cut into thin strips carrots and daikon.
2. Put the water to boil, warm to a warm state.
3. Add to water, vinegar, salt and sugar.
4. Stir until sugar is completely dissolved.
5. Put carrots and daikon in prepared jars.
6. Pour marinade into jars, close them tightly and let them brew.

Interesting facts about daikon

1. Daikon is also called "white radish", as well as Chinese or Japanese radish.
2. The most common variety in the world is Aokubi – daikon. Fruits in shape resemble an oblong thin carrot.
3. The most unusual kind of daikon is Sakurajima. The fruits are similar in shape to turnips, and they are quite large, can reach half a meter in diameter and weigh 40 kg.
4. Daikon is actively used as a material for carving. The pulp of the fruit is quite dense and has a white color, so excellent crafts and figures come out of it.
5. The fruit has a more delicate taste, unlike radish and radish, so it is considered a more versatile vegetable. Fresh fruits can be consumed individually or with sour cream, or included in various salads.
6. Daikon, as a rule, is present in the diet of millions of people living in Asia. For example, daikon pies are in great demand in China, and kimchi is made from it in Korea. Japanese culinary specialists serve the product raw to various fish dishes, soups and sushi. In addition, daikon is found in traditional Vietnamese and Tibetan cuisines.
7. Daikon greens deteriorate quite quickly, so only those who are directly involved in the cultivation of this crop can fully enjoy it.

Daikon photo