PRACTICAL HEALTH TIPS (A sequel to Urban Agriculture)

With the continuing uptrend in prices of vegetables at the local markets, this section will dwell on locally-grown root crops to obtain maximum health benefits, aside from saving extra family income. The following root crops are included in the Top 13 sources of nutritious foods:

1. ONIONS – high in fiber, vitamin C and antioxidants which significantly reduce blood sugar level and risk of certain cancers. They can be grown in pots using organic soil as discussed in previous issues of SHARE.
2. SWEET POTATOES (“kamote”) – also rich in fiber, vitamins C & A and anti-oxidants. They also improve immunity, protect against vision loss and support skin health.
3. GINGER – loaded with antioxidants, helps reduce nausea and decrease pain and inflammation.
4. GARLIC – rich in vitamins C & B6 and manganese which promote heart health by lowering blood pressure, and cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
5. RADISH – low in carbohydrates but contains good amount of fiber and vitamin C. It also contains anti- fungal properties.
6. CARROTS – brimming with vitamin C as well as beta- carotene that lowers risk of breast, stomach and prostate cancer.
7. CELERY – highly versatile and delicious. It contains hearty dose of vitamin C and phosphorus as well as an excellent source of vitamin K which is necessary for blood clotting and bone health.
8. TURMERIC – the rhizomes or roots are often ground as spice and contain compound called curcumin which prevents blood clotting.
9. POTATOES (“patatas”) – incredibly versatile, widely available and nutritious.They are packed with good chunk of fiber, vitamins C & B6, potassium and manganese.

Items 2 to 9 can also be grown in recycled receptacles filled with organic soil and exposed to sunlight but portable in case of bad weather. SO, IT’S TIME FOR GREEN REVOLUTION, “MASAYA NA, MASUSTANSYA, MURA AT MALUSOG KA PA!!!