Horseradish is a white root vegetable that looks like “whole ginger.” It is available both fresh and dried and is used all across the world, not only as a condiment but also for many therapeutic purposes.
It has a powerful and hot flavor and is frequently included in making hot and tangy sauces. However, some people avoid it because of its strong flavor and fragrance.
One of the hottest topics about this multipurpose vegetable is its pH. It is often questioned for its acidity or alkalinity and many people out there are confused to consume it.
Well, if you too are in the loop, we’ve got you covered. This article will let you know everything about this superfood and how you can incorporate it into your diet for the best results.
Let’s get to it.
Is horseradish acidic?
Yes! Horseradish is acidic. It has a pH value of 5.4. And it is due to the presence of allyl isothiocyanate which is a colorless to pale yellow oily liquid with a strong pungent smell.
Although there are many types of horseradish, the pH of each type is almost the same. Yet, the pH might change based on how natural the substance is. For example, fresh ground horseradish is not very acidic and is typically regarded as neutral.
So, is it safe to consume horseradish?
Now that we have talked about horseradish being acidic, you might be considering if it is safe to use it or not.
Well, it is safe, don’t worry!
Although it is an acidic species, the use of horseradish is typically considered safe. It is employed not just as food but also as medicine. Since the pH is above 4.9, the chances of acid refluxes are low and only arise in case of high consumption.
There are several advantages of horseradish that benefit human health and you may lose out on a variety of perks if you exclude it from your diet.
Continue reading if you want to learn more about the rich qualities of horseradish.
The health benefits of eating horseradish
Horseradish embraces more than just being a simple root crop. It has been utilized for medicinal purposes for ages throughout the world.
Like certain species of the mustard family, horseradish includes a compound known as sinigrin. By inhibiting or altering the immune response components that generate an inflammatory response, sinigrin has been demonstrated to help decrease inflammation.
Antioxidants found in horseradish are plentiful and can help shield your organs from cellular harm. The isothiocyanates in horseradish may fight diseases by slowing the development of harmful cells and encouraging their destruction.
Horseradish consumption is known to give you a burning feeling in your throat and nostrils. Because of this, it’s frequently used to treat respiratory problems and colds. Additionally, horseradish has been employed as an antibiotic in conventional medicine.
A variety of crucial elements, such as calcium, magnesium, potassium, vitamin C, and zinc, are present in horseradish as well.
Horseradish is a healthy additive to dishes since it is a good source of fiber and low in calories. It might be the solution if you wish to enhance taste without increasing the caloric intake. It is also likely to assist you in losing weight by effectively accelerating your metabolic activity.
Side effects of eating horseradish
Since we have discussed the health benefits of horseradish, we want you to know the possible side effects you might face as a result of consuming it. Although the potential negative consequences of taking horseradish are not well understood, we’ve still tried our best to gather as much information as we can.
Horseradish is acidic, so eating more quantity can make you sick and throw up and have diarrhea. The thyroid glands’ activity might be slowed down by it and it may disturb your stomach as well, only if consumed in high quantity.
It contains mustard oil, which irritates the lining of the urinary tract, digestive tract, throat, and nose. Also, your tongue may feel itchy while eating. Most importantly, it might be quite aggravating for those who suffer from ulcerative colitis or stomach disorders.
So, if you are sensitive to acidic foods, horseradish might not be the best choice for you and it’s probably better to use it carefully. Because, when used in small doses with meals, horseradish root is harmless.
What’s the healthy way out?
Eating horseradish has far more advantages for you as compared to the disadvantages stated above. Even, the disadvantages that have been stated in the majority of cases are for the people who already suffer from some digestive issues or consume this bitter root excessively.
To avoid all these inconveniences and reap maximum benefits, moderate consumption is the safest way out. Also, the time of consumption matters a lot.
3–4 grams of horseradish per day is the most recommended dose. However, 20 grams can be consumed daily in case you are using the dried form of the root. And the best time for consumption is before mealtime.
In case horseradish does not suit your taste or health, try looking for a potential alternative. The most common substitutes for horseradish are Wasabi paste, Brown mustard, and ginger. They can provide you with a similar taste and can satisfy your craving for horseradish.
See also: Difference between horseradish and Wasabi
Conclusion
Yes, horseradish is acidic due to the presence of allyl isothiocyanate. But despite being an acidic species, ingesting it in the right doses will benefit you greatly. It must be noted that this bitter root isn’t directly linked to any health-related problem until the consumer is allergic to it or if it is consumed excessively.
Therefore, those who are sensitive to it should avoid it at all costs and others should consume it moderately.