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Turnip vs. Radish — Health Impact and Nutrition Comparison

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Article author photo Jack  Yacoubian by Jack Yacoubian | Last updated on April 30, 2023
Medically reviewed by Arpi Gasparyan Article author photo Arpi Gasparyan
Turnip
vs
Radish

Summary

Turnips have a wider range of multisystem health benefits. Turnips are richer in copper, vitamin C, and most B complex vitamins. In comparison, radishes have a lower glycemic index, lower calories, and are cheaper. Radishes are also richer in folate compared to turnips.

Introduction

Turnips and radishes belong to the family of root vegetables, which means that the edible part is the root of the vegetable grown under the soil. It is important to note that the green leaves are also edible.

This article will compare both based on general differences, nutritional content, and health impacts. 

General differences

Differences and Similarities in Appearance and Taste

Turnips and radishes come in different colors and sizes. This article will consider medium-sized turnips with white and purple colors and small-sized red-colored radishes.

Raw turnips have a spicy and mustardy flavor; however, they give a sweet and earthy flavor when cooked. On the other hand, radish has a zesty and spicy flavor similar to turnips; when cooked, they give a sweet earthy flavor.

Seasonal availability

Turnips are primarily cultivated in temperate climate regions. The harvest takes place during summer.

Radishes, on the other hand, are available throughout the year. There are spring, summer, and winter radishes.

Recipes

Turnips can be consumed in various ways, such as raw ones added to salads to increase flavor and texture.

Turnips can also be boiled, roasted, and mashed. It can also be used to prepare coleslaw preparation instead of cabbage.

A famous middle-eastern pickle is the turnip pickle which is usually done with beetroot and vinegar.

Radishes, similar to turnips, can be consumed similarly. The difference in radishes is that they have a less mustardy flavor. Thus, they are mostly consumed raw or pickled compared to turnips.

Price

Radish is cheaper than a turnip, but the price difference is not very high. They are nearly similar compared to each other.

Nutritional data comparison

Calories

Radishes are lower in calories compared to turnips. 100g of radish contains 16 calories compared to turnips which contain 28 calories. It is important to note that both are classified as low-calorie foods.

Glycemic index

Radish has a lower glycemic index compared to turnip. 

Turnips are classified as high glycemic index foods. The glycemic index of turnips is 73. On the other hand, radishes are classified as low glycemic index foods. The glycemic index of radish is 32.

Carbs

Turnips contain more carbs than radishes. Turnips contain two times more carbs compared to radishes.

Fiber

Turnips and radishes have similar amounts of fiber.

Fat and protein

Turnips and radishes have negligible amounts of fats and proteins.

Vitamins

Turnips are richer in vitamin C by 42% compared to radishes. 

In addition, turnips are richer in vitamin B6 and most other B-complex vitamins.

On the other hand, radishes are richer in folate.

300g of turnips satisfy 70% of the daily requirement of vitamin C and 21% of vitamin B6. In comparison, 300g of radishes satisfy 50% of the daily requirement of vitamin C and 19% of folate requirements.

Vitamin Comparison

Vitamin comparison score is based on the number of vitamins by which one or the other food is richer. The "coverage" charts below show how much of the daily needs can be covered by 300 grams of the food.
Turnip
6
:
4
Radish
Contains more Vitamin E +∞%
Contains more Vitamin C +41.9%
Contains more Vitamin B1 +233.3%
Contains more Vitamin B3 +57.5%
Contains more Vitamin B5 +21.2%
Contains more Vitamin B6 +26.8%
Contains more Vitamin A +∞%
Contains more Vitamin B2 +30%
Contains more Folate +66.7%
Contains more Vitamin K +1200%
Vitamin A Vitamin E Vitamin D Vitamin C Vitamin B1 Vitamin B2 Vitamin B3 Vitamin B5 Vitamin B6 Folate Vitamin B12 Vitamin K 0% 1% 0% 70% 10% 7% 8% 12% 21% 12% 0% 1%
Vitamin A Vitamin E Vitamin D Vitamin C Vitamin B1 Vitamin B2 Vitamin B3 Vitamin B5 Vitamin B6 Folate Vitamin B12 Vitamin K 1% 0% 0% 50% 3% 9% 5% 10% 17% 19% 0% 4%
Contains more Vitamin E +∞%
Contains more Vitamin C +41.9%
Contains more Vitamin B1 +233.3%
Contains more Vitamin B3 +57.5%
Contains more Vitamin B5 +21.2%
Contains more Vitamin B6 +26.8%
Contains more Vitamin A +∞%
Contains more Vitamin B2 +30%
Contains more Folate +66.7%
Contains more Vitamin K +1200%

Minerals

Turnips are richer in copper compared to radishes. Turnips contain 70% more copper.

On the other hand, radishes are richer in iron and potassium. Radishes are also lower in sodium compared to turnips by 42%.

Mineral Comparison

Mineral comparison score is based on the number of minerals by which one or the other food is richer. The "coverage" charts below show how much of the daily needs can be covered by 300 grams of the food.
Turnip
6
:
4
Radish
Contains more Calcium +20%
Contains more Phosphorus +35%
Contains more Copper +70%
Contains more Manganese +94.2%
Contains more Selenium +16.7%
Contains more Iron +13.3%
Contains more Potassium +22%
Contains less Sodium -41.8%
Equal in Magnesium - 10
Equal in Zinc - 0.28
Calcium Iron Magnesium Phosphorus Potassium Sodium Zinc Copper Manganese Selenium 9% 12% 8% 12% 17% 9% 8% 29% 18% 4%
Calcium Iron Magnesium Phosphorus Potassium Sodium Zinc Copper Manganese Selenium 8% 13% 8% 9% 21% 6% 8% 17% 10% 4%
Contains more Calcium +20%
Contains more Phosphorus +35%
Contains more Copper +70%
Contains more Manganese +94.2%
Contains more Selenium +16.7%
Contains more Iron +13.3%
Contains more Potassium +22%
Contains less Sodium -41.8%
Equal in Magnesium - 10
Equal in Zinc - 0.28

Bioactive compounds with pharmaceutical effects

Important chemicals present in turnips that have health importance are glucosinolates, isothiocyanates, phenylpropionitrile, brassica phenanthrene A, flavonoid phenolics, and arvelexin.

On the other hand, radish contains the following important compounds:

Flavonoids, phenols, polyphenols, pelargonidin, and isothiocyanates.

Health impacts

Cancer

Turnips have anti-carcinogenic and anti-tumor properties. The main components in turnips that provide these characteristics are glucosinolates and isothiocyanates. (1)

Radish has anti-carcinogenic properties. Radish metabolites like glucosinolates and isothiocyanates induce apoptosis and cancer cell death. This effect has been manifested in different cancers like liver cancer, colon cancer, breast cancer, prostate cancer, cervical cancer, and lung cancer. (2) (3)

Antioxidant

The flavonoids and phenolic compounds present in turnips have anti-oxidative characteristics. They are responsible for the scavenging effect of free radicals and reducing overall levels of oxidative stress. (4) (5)

On the other hand, radish also has anti-oxidative properties. Polyphenols provide high scavenging properties of free radicals, which in turn reduces oxidative stress. In addition, pyrogallol and vanillic acid present in radish have anti-oxidative properties. Radish anthocyanins have chemoprotective characteristics on overall stress-induced damage on normal body cells. (6)

Anti Inflammatory

Turnip has anti-inflammatory characteristics, which are due to the activity of arvelexin. (7)

Comparatively, radish contains anti-inflammatory compounds that have a bioactive effect similar to NSAIDs which suppress the activity of COX-2, a pro-inflammatory compound. It is important to note that these anti-inflammatory compounds are also present in radish leaves. (8)

Cardioprotective

Section reviewed by cardiologist Astghik Grigoryan Article author photo Astghik Grigoryan

In addition to their anti-inflammatory characteristics, arvelexin in turnips has antihypertensive and lipid-decreasing properties. The regulation of blood pressure and the decrease in blood lipid levels overall provide the cardioprotective role of turnips. (7)

While radish is rich in nitrate, it protects vascular tissue and acts as an antiaggregant. These characteristics help maintain healthy cardiovascular homeostasis.

Obesity, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome

Ethanolic extracts present in turnips have anti-obesity properties. (10)

The ethanolic extracts in turnips, also have anti-diabetic properties. It improves blood glucose levels and regulates glucagon and insulin ratios. These extracts regulate hepatic glucose-regulating enzymes. Overall these extracts normalize blood glucose levels. (11)

Radish has anti-diabetic properties. It acts on the synthesis of adiponectin, one of the factors in regulating lipids and glucose in the body. This is also responsible for fatty acid oxidation and mobilization from stored fatty acid deposits all over the body. (12) (13)

Analgesic properties

Alcoholic compounds present in turnips have analgesic properties when consumed in the correct dosage and time intervals. (14)

Antimicrobial properties

Turnip extract has antimicrobial properties against multiple pathogens like staphylococcusbacillus, and vibrios. In addition, turnip extracts were tested against helicobacter pylori and have beneficial results in treating helicobacter infections. (5)

Radish contains sulfur-containing compounds with antimicrobial characteristics on multiple pathogenic bacterial species, like E Coli and pseudomonas. (15)

Cardiopulmonary enhancing properties

Consumption of turnips has been shown to improve hemoglobin levels in the blood, increasing overall oxygen levels. (16)

Hepatoprotective properties

Section reviewed by gastroenterologist Arpi Gasparyan Article author photo Arpi Gasparyan

Flavonoids, phenolics, indoles, and volatiles found in turnip may have hepatoprotective effects by mitigating liver injury caused by hepatotoxic agents. (17)

Radish bioactive compounds may also have hepatoprotective effects due to cytoprotective (cell protection) and antioxidant effects. (18) (19)

Nephroprotective properties

Turnip extract improves kidney functioning and filtration. In addition to that, kidney and overall urinary tract inflammation reduction. (20)

Diets and weight loss

Turnip and radish are low in carbs and rich in fibers. On a caloric deficit diet or overall healthy lifestyle, it is important to include both during daily meals to maintain a healthy digestive tract and add textural complexity to everyday meals.

Vegan

Radish and turnips can be eaten by people who are following vegan diets.

Keto

Turnips are an excellent alternative replacement for potatoes in keto diets. Fried, boiled, mashed, and roasted turnips are a low-carb alternative to potatoes. However, the mustardy flavor might be overpowering for people who don’t like mustardy flavors.

Although fried turnips can replace fried potatoes, it is important to mention that if someone wants to follow a healthy lifestyle, it is recommended to avoid eating fried foods, which means that fried turnips are not a healthy alternative to fried potatoes.

Radishes are also recommended to be consumed in the keto diet and can be a good alternative to potatoes. However, turnips are more versatile in cooking compared to radishes.

Downsides

Drug interaction

Turnips can interact with medications dedicated to high blood pressure by increasing their activity and causing severe hypotension. In moderation, turnips wouldn’t cause these overreactions. However, it is best to take advice from your doctor.

Radishes decrease blood sugar levels. If taken in high amounts associated with anti-diabetic drugs, it might cause hypoglycemia, which means it decreases sugar levels below normal.

Allergies

It is essential to take into consideration turnip allergies. If it’s the first time someone is consuming turnips, it is advised to consume them in lower amounts the first two times if that person is allergic to them.

Radish allergies also exist; however, it is rare.

General Highlights

Turnips can cause bloating and gas. It is best to boil, cook, or bake turnips before consuming them if bloating and gas cause discomfort.

Moderate consumption of radish doesn’t cause any discomfort. However, consuming radishes in high amounts causes stomach irritation.

Radish consumption increases bile flow from the liver and gallbladder. In patients who suffer from gallstones, the flow might cause the stones to block the bile path and cause a painful gallbladder shock.

Article author photo Jack  Yacoubian
Education: Haigazian Medical University
Last updated: April 30, 2023
Medically reviewed by Arpi Gasparyan

Infographic

Turnip vs Radish infographic
Infographic link

Macronutrient Comparison

Macronutrient breakdown side-by-side comparison
Turnip
3
:
1
Radish
Contains more Protein +32.4%
Contains more Carbs +89.1%
Contains more Other +27.3%
Equal in Fats - 0.1
Equal in Water - 95.27
6% 92%
Protein: 0.9 g
Fats: 0.1 g
Carbs: 6.43 g
Water: 91.87 g
Other: 0.7 g
3% 95%
Protein: 0.68 g
Fats: 0.1 g
Carbs: 3.4 g
Water: 95.27 g
Other: 0.55 g
Contains more Protein +32.4%
Contains more Carbs +89.1%
Contains more Other +27.3%
Equal in Fats - 0.1
Equal in Water - 95.27

Fat Type Comparison

Fat type breakdown side-by-side comparison
Turnip
2
:
1
Radish
Contains less Saturated Fat -65.6%
Contains more Polyunsaturated fat +10.4%
Contains more Monounsaturated Fat +183.3%
Equal in Polyunsaturated fat - 0.048
16% 9% 76%
Saturated Fat: 0.011 g
Monounsaturated Fat: 0.006 g
Polyunsaturated fat: 0.053 g
33% 18% 49%
Saturated Fat: 0.032 g
Monounsaturated Fat: 0.017 g
Polyunsaturated fat: 0.048 g
Contains less Saturated Fat -65.6%
Contains more Polyunsaturated fat +10.4%
Contains more Monounsaturated Fat +183.3%
Equal in Polyunsaturated fat - 0.048

Comparison summary table

Pay attention to the rightmost column. It displays the amounts side by side, giving a clearer understanding of the difference.
Turnip Radish
Lower in Saturated Fat ok
Lower in price ok
Rich in minerals ok
Lower in Sugar ok
Lower in Sodium ok
Lower in Glycemic Index ok
Lower in Cholesterol Equal
Rich in vitamins Equal

All nutrients comparison - raw data values

Nutrient Turnip Radish Opinion
Net carbs 4.63g 1.8g Turnip
Protein 0.9g 0.68g Turnip
Fats 0.1g 0.1g
Carbs 6.43g 3.4g Turnip
Calories 28kcal 16kcal Turnip
Fructose 0.71g Radish
Sugar 3.8g 1.86g Radish
Fiber 1.8g 1.6g Turnip
Calcium 30mg 25mg Turnip
Iron 0.3mg 0.34mg Radish
Magnesium 11mg 10mg Turnip
Phosphorus 27mg 20mg Turnip
Potassium 191mg 233mg Radish
Sodium 67mg 39mg Radish
Zinc 0.27mg 0.28mg Radish
Copper 0.085mg 0.05mg Turnip
Manganese 0.134mg 0.069mg Turnip
Selenium 0.7µg 0.6µg Turnip
Vitamin A 0IU 7IU Radish
Vitamin E 0.03mg 0mg Turnip
Vitamin C 21mg 14.8mg Turnip
Vitamin B1 0.04mg 0.012mg Turnip
Vitamin B2 0.03mg 0.039mg Radish
Vitamin B3 0.4mg 0.254mg Turnip
Vitamin B5 0.2mg 0.165mg Turnip
Vitamin B6 0.09mg 0.071mg Turnip
Folate 15µg 25µg Radish
Vitamin K 0.1µg 1.3µg Radish
Tryptophan 0.009mg 0.009mg
Threonine 0.025mg 0.023mg Turnip
Isoleucine 0.036mg 0.02mg Turnip
Leucine 0.033mg 0.031mg Turnip
Lysine 0.036mg 0.033mg Turnip
Methionine 0.011mg 0.01mg Turnip
Phenylalanine 0.017mg 0.036mg Radish
Valine 0.03mg 0.035mg Radish
Histidine 0.014mg 0.013mg Turnip
Saturated Fat 0.011g 0.032g Turnip
Monounsaturated Fat 0.006g 0.017g Radish
Polyunsaturated fat 0.053g 0.048g Turnip

Which food is preferable for your diet?

ok
ok
is better in case of low diet
Turnip Radish
Low Fats diet Equal
Low Carbs diet ok
Low Calories diet ok
Low Glycemic Index diet ok

People also compare

Vitamins & Minerals Daily Need Coverage Score

The summary scores indicate the extent to which this food can fulfill your daily vitamin and mineral requirements if you consume 3 servings, consisting of 100 grams of each (an approximation of 3 serving sizes).
Vitamins Daily Need Coverage Score
12%
Turnip
10%
Radish
Minerals Daily Need Coverage Score
12%
Turnip
10%
Radish

Comparison summary

Which food is lower in Saturated Fat?
Turnip
Turnip is lower in Saturated Fat (difference - 0.021g)
Which food is cheaper?
Turnip
Turnip is cheaper (difference - $0.3)
Which food is richer in minerals?
Turnip
Turnip is relatively richer in minerals
Which food is lower in Sugar?
Radish
Radish is lower in Sugar (difference - 1.94g)
Which food contains less Sodium?
Radish
Radish contains less Sodium (difference - 28mg)
Which food is lower in glycemic index?
Radish
Radish is lower in glycemic index (difference - 41)
Which food contains less Cholesterol?
?
The foods are relatively equal in Cholesterol (0 mg)
Which food is richer in vitamins?
?
It cannot be stated which food is richer in vitamins. See the charts below for detailed information. See the charts below for detailed information. See the charts below for detailed information.

References

All the values for which the sources are not specified explicitly are taken from FDA’s Food Central. The exact link to the food presented on this page can be found below.

  1. Turnip - https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/170465/nutrients
  2. Radish - https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/169276/nutrients

All the Daily Values are presented for males aged 31-50, for 2000-calorie diets.

Data provided by FoodStruct.com should be considered and used as information only. Please consult your physician before beginning any diet.