Why Adding Radish to Your Meals Can Improve Your Health

Updated on 14 Dec 2025

Healthy food is often associated with costly ingredients or complex diets, yet some of the most beneficial options are simple and widely available. Radish, or “mooli” as it is called in many Indian homes, is one such vegetable. Crunchy, refreshing and easy to incorporate into daily meals, radishes are more than just a salad ingredient.

What is a radish?

Radish is a root vegetable that is crunchy, juicy and slightly spicy in taste. It is commonly eaten in salads, pickles or cooked as part of different dishes.

Radish comes in different colours and shapes. Some are round and red, while others are long and white. Both the root and the green leaves of radish are edible and full of nutrients.

Radish grows easily in Indian soil and is available in markets throughout the year. It is affordable, refreshing and often enjoyed during winter when its flavour is at its best.

What are the health benefits of a radish?

Here are some of the top benefits of radish that can promote overall health-

1. Cancer Prevention:

Glucosinolates, present in radishes, are substances known to protect cells against genetic alterations that might result in cancer.

These substances provide a barrier against some forms of cancer by helping to destroy potentially malignant cells.

2. Digestive Support:

Radishes include a significant 1.9g of fibre per 116g serving, which makes them very beneficial for digestion.

Their high fibre content promotes digestive health and helps avoid constipation.

Research has demonstrated beneficial effects for stomach ulcers, suggesting their potential to support gastrointestinal health.

3. Fungal Defence:

Radishes have an antifungal substance that works well against Candida bacteria and helps shield against typical fungal infections.

A balanced and healthy microbial ecosystem is preserved in part by this natural defence mechanism.

4. Diabetes Control:

Packed with anti-diabetic qualities, radishes help to keep blood sugar levels under control.

They help lower the type 2 diabetes by increasing glucose absorption and insulin responsiveness. Frequent eating could help improve blood sugar control.

5. Skin Improvement:

Vitamin C, which is plentiful in radishes, is essential for protecting the skin from UV rays, boosting skin suppleness and scavenging free radicals.

These characteristics help the skin seem younger and healthier.

6. Hydration:

Radishes lead the way in contributing to hydration, with a high water content of 93.5g per 100g.

Maintaining enough hydration is crucial for several body processes, such as temperature control, circulation and digestion.

7. Support for Heart Health:

Anthocyanins in radish reduce the risk of cardiovascular illnesses, which supports heart health.

Nutritional value of radish

Radishes may seem simple, but they are packed with essential nutrients. Half a cup of radish contains:

What happens if I eat radishes daily?

Eating radishes daily, in moderate amounts, is generally safe and healthy. Since they are low in calories and rich in nutrients, they can be part of your daily meals.

Eating radishes every day can result in:

• Better digestion and less bloating.
• Fresher, clearer skin because of the water and vitamin C.
• More energy and lightness, as radish is easy to digest.
• Support in weight control, as it keeps you full without adding many calories.

However, consuming too much radish at one time may occasionally cause gas or a slight burning sensation in the stomach for some people. It is best to balance it with other vegetables and foods. Along with simple steps like this, you must think about long-term care for your family. For that, you can consider reliable health insurance for parents to ensure they stay protected at every stage of life.

Conclusion

Radish is a refreshing and affordable vegetable filled with nutrients that support digestion, skin health, immunity, and overall wellness. Whether you eat it raw, cooked or in the form of pickles, radish can bring both taste and health benefits to your plate. Adding radish to your meals daily in small amounts is a simple way to take better care of your body.

Just as eating healthy food like radish protects your body, having the right health insurance plan protects you during unexpected medical needs. Take a step towards protecting your health and your family’s future today. Simply fill out the form on this page to get personalised health insurance advice.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a certified medical and/or nutrition professional for any questions. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.