1. Rich in soluble and insoluble fibre

Being a rich source of fibre, it’s no surprise that parsnips help promote digestive regularity. They may also benefit a number of other gut-related conditions, including reflux and diverticulitis. Rich in both soluble and insoluble fibre, parsnips help promote a greater mix of beneficial gut microbes.

2. May help with weight loss goals

Research suggests that including vegetables like parsnips in your diet helps increase fullness and a sense of satiation. Nevertheless, some weight loss plans, like low-carb diets, advise the avoidance of root vegetables, such as carrots and parsnips, because they’re rich in simple carbs.  This approach ignores the other health benefits of these vegetables, including the fact that when eaten in their whole form, their structure, fibre and water content may help curb appetite, while their natural sweetness may be helpful when attempting to reduce other sugars in the diet.

3. Good source of protective antioxidants

Parsnips are a source of active plant compounds, such as furanocoumarins, flavonoids and polyacetylenes, including one called falcarinol. These compounds have anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anti-cancer properties, and also act as vasodilators, which helps modulate blood pressure.

4. May have a calming effect

Falcarinol is found in both parsnips and carrots, which protects against fungal infection. Much of falcarinol, about 70%, is lost during cooking, but the remainder is absorbed and can cross the blood brain barrier where it may have a calming, sedative effect. Falcarinol is also serotonergic, meaning it influences the feelgood brain chemical, serotonin. Animal studies suggest falcarinol may improve anxiety and depression-like symptoms, however, it’s far too early to say whether similar effects may be replicated in humans.

5. May support immune function

Parsnips are a useful source of vitamin C, with one serving (80g) providing a fifth of your recommended intake. Vitamin C is one of the nutrients that contributes to our immune defences, helping to support both our innate and adaptive immune responses. In addition to this, the rich antioxidant content, which includes quercetin, kaempferol and apigenin, helps fight off infection.