Parsnips Boost Gut Health and Mood, Experts Reveal
Adding a common vegetable to your meals can significantly enhance gut health and potentially improve your mood, according to recent insights from health experts. Parsnips, a popular root vegetable often served as a side dish, are packed with nutrients that support digestive function and may have calming effects.
Fibre Content Supports Digestive System
Nutrition specialists at Good Food explain that parsnips are rich in both soluble and insoluble fibre, which plays a crucial role in digestion. This fibre content encourages the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut microbiome, an internal ecosystem unique to each individual. The bacteria help break down complex carbohydrates and dietary fibres that the body cannot process on its own, producing short-chain fatty acids and enzymes essential for vitamin synthesis.
Falcarinol's Calming Influence
Good Food's health editor highlighted in an Instagram video that parsnips contain falcarinol, a protective plant compound. This compound is known to have a calming effect and can influence serotonin levels, often referred to as the brain's feel-good chemical. Although about 70% of falcarinol is lost during cooking, the remaining amount is absorbed and may provide soothing benefits.
Potential Cancer Risk Reduction
Research from the University of Newcastle in 2005 found that falcarinol, also present in carrots, reduced cancer risk in rats by one-third. In the study, 24 rats with pre-cancerous tumours were divided into three groups and fed different diets. After 18 weeks, rats consuming carrots or falcarinol supplements showed a significantly lower likelihood of developing full-blown tumours compared to the control group. Falcarinol is known to shield vegetables from fungal diseases, such as liquorice rot.
Additional Health Benefits
Parsnips are also an excellent source of vitamins and antioxidants, particularly vitamin C, which strengthens the immune system. Nutritionist Kerry Torrens outlined five key benefits of including parsnips in your diet:
- High in fibre, aiding digestion and diversifying the gut microbiome
- Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, potentially regulating blood pressure
- Source of vitamin C, supporting immune defence against infections
- May increase serotonin levels, enhancing mood
- Offers protection against fungal infections
Incorporating parsnips into regular meals can be a simple yet effective way to boost overall health, leveraging their natural compounds for digestive and emotional well-being.
