What Are the Side Effects of Radish?

Radish is a plant whose root is used as food and medicine. It has a fresh and slightly spicy flavor that comes in various forms such as Radis Noir Espagnol, Radis Rouge, Raphani Sativi Radix, Raphanus sativus, Red Radish, Black Radish, Black Spanish Radish, Daikon Radish, Long Black Spanish Radish, Round Black Spanish Radish, Small Radish, Spanish Radish, Spanish Black Radish, Turnip Radish, Moolak, Mooli Beej, Petit Radis, Rábano, Radis, Radis Espagnol, and Radis Noir. Although radish has got some health benefits such as curing treating bile duct problems, loss of appetite, intestinal disorders, pain and inflammation of the mouth and throat, bronchitis, tendency towards infections, inflammation or excessive mucus of the respiratory tract, fever, cough, and colds, it is not entirely safe for everyone. Here are some reasons you might find radish unhealthy.

9 Things to Consider Before Eating Radish

May be Unhealthy for the Kidneys

Radish is diuretic in nature. This means that it increases the production of urine in the body, thereby causing frequent visits to the loo. This makes it great at eliminating toxins and other impurities from our body, and as a result, takes some burden off the kidneys. This goes without saying that it maintains kidney health, and in turn, reduces the risk of urinary tract infections.
All of these are highly beneficial, however, only when consumption is moderate. Eating too many radishes may cause the loss of excess water, leading to dehydration and overworking of the kidneys. Of course, dehydration is unhealthy because it deprives the body of water, and interferes with the functionality of the kidneys and some other vital organs.

Risk of Iron Overdose

Frequent consumption of radish decreases the risk of anemia because it contains iron, and this boosts the production of red blood cells. This would have been entirely great, but for the facts that just a bit of overeating may change the story. Iron overdose, like its deficiency, is unhealthy. Iron overdose may cause vomiting, reduced blood sugar levels, abdominal pain, liver damage, diarrhea, seizures, internal bleeding, and some other health challenges.

Risk of Hypoglycemia

Radish is low sugar, and that`s why it is a healthy choice for diabetics. It also contains dietary fiber that lessens sugar absorption into the bloodstream, however, excessive intake of radish could be dangerous, as it may cause extremely low blood sugar levels, which is a terrible condition that may complicate into other health challenges.

Risk of Thyroid Malfunction

Radish contains goitrogen which conflicts with the thyroid hormones and causes a defect of the thyroid gland. The good news here is that you can neutralize the goitrogen content in radish by cooking it.

Risk of Hypotension

Radish manages blood pressure and battles hypertension because it contains potassium. But with excessive consumption, radish can be unhealthy because it may cause hypotension, which is abnormally low blood pressure levels. This is entirely dangerous, especially for people who already take medications to control their blood pressure. Such persons are advised to avoid consuming radish in any form.

Risk of Digestion Issues

Regular consumption of radish is beneficial for the stomach and keeps the digestive system healthy because it`s packed with loads of vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients. Radishes are also a rich source of dietary fibers that serve our bodies as a natural laxative, ensuring smooth elimination of feces and general bowel movement. That`s not all, as it treats constipation and gives some relief from digestive disorders such as bloating, flatulence, abdominal pain, gas, among others. What`s more? Radishes eliminate toxins, regulate blood sugar, and manage cholesterol levels.

All these are excellent until excessive consumption sets in, which may cause challenges such as intestinal gas, intestinal blockage, and some other digestion issues.

Risk of Dehydration

Radish eliminates toxins from the body, and as a result, it reduces the workload on the kidneys. It also reduces the risk of urinary tract infections, however, these benefits only come with moderate consumption. People who consume too much of it may experience excessive water loss from the body, thereby causing dehydration and harming the kidneys.

Risk of Gastric Irritation

Allyl isothiocyanate, a sulfur compound present in radish, may cause an irritant action on the stomach mucosa. Also, because it contains a by-product of glucosinolate, it may irritate some people. Allergy as a result of consuming radish usually begins at the fingertips and may lead to rhinitis, anaphylactic shock, contact dermatitis, and allergic asthma, among other conditions.

Risk of Contamination

Because radish grows inside the soil, any contamination in the soil may affect those who eat it. Eating contaminated radish may cause E.coli or salmonella. To avoid such, make sure yo wash your radish thoroughly.

Precautions for Consuming Radish

Pregnancy and Breast-Feeding

There isn`t sufficient information on the impact of radish on women who are pregnant and breast-feeding, however, they are advised to consume it in moderation and discontinue consumption of they observe any anomalies. Also, remember that you will never go wrong when you consult your doctor.

Not safe with Gallstones

This is totally non-negotiable. If you have gallstones, don’t consume radish; it is totally unsafe for you.

Avoid radishes if:

• you suffer hypothyroidism or goiter
• have gastritis problems
• you have a fatty-duodenal ulcer

How Much Radish Is Safe?

There are actually no hard and fast rules as to the consumption of radishes. The appropriate quantity depends on factors such as the consumer’s age and health. Usually, product labels contain safe amounts, however, consulting your doctor before consuming it is just ideal, so as to enjoy its health benefits and avoid its side effects.

Frequently Asked Questions About Radish

Is it Healthy to Eat Radish at Night?

It’s only a myth to think that eating radish at night is unhealthy. It is totally safe to eat radish at night, however, like any other food of its kind, eating radish late at night may cause indigestion and disturb your sleep pattern.

Does Radish Make People Fat?

Radish contains extremely low quantities of calories, and as a result, doesn’t make fat. It actually constitutes a healthy diet plan: 100 grams of radish has approximately 16 calories. So you may just consider replacing your fatty and sugar-filled foods with radish and other vegetables that are rich in fiber and water. This way, you can reduce the number of calories in your body and maintain healthy blood glucose levels.

11 Radish Facts

• Radishes flourish in a wide variety of soil types.
• Radishes grow best at cool temperatures.
• The roots of radishes are ready for harvesting about 45 days after sowing, depending on the variety.
• Ancient Egyptians used radish seed oil for many recipes and remedies.
• The first written records of radish were in the third century B.C.
• The word “radish” comes from the Latin word, “radix” which means “root”.
• Radish leaves are utilized in fruit juices, soups, and some other recipes.
• A 100-gram serving of radishes contains 16 calories.
• Radishes flower after they are harvested.
• Radishes are mostly used in salads.
• Americans consume 400 million pounds of radishes yearly.

Now that you Know…

Now you know more about radish than its health benefits. Going by what you`ve read, is it safe for you? If it is, remember the golden rule: consume in moderate quantities. Be sure to enjoy your radish and enrich your body with its amazing health benefits.