Health Guide

Kohlrabi

Meet Kohlrabi (Brassica oleracea var. gongylodes), affectionately known as the 'German Turnip.' Don't let its alien-like appearance intimidate you! This crunchy, bulbous vegetable is a nutritional powerhouse, sitting proudly in the cruciferous family alongside broccoli and kale. While it's technically a stem, it offers a flavor profile similar to broccoli stems or mild radishes—sweet, peppery, and incredibly refreshing. Think of it as nature's hydrating multitasker: it packs a punch of Vitamin C and fiber while keeping calories remarkably low. Whether you roast it into 'steaks' or shred it raw into slaws, kohlrabi is the versatile, immune-boosting vegetable your diet has been missing.
Evidence BasedDietary Supplement
Kohlrabi
VERIFIED SOURCE

Bio-Activity Analysis

Vitamin C Density Comparison

SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION

Y-Axis
Daily Value %
Vegetable

Health Benefits & Sources

Why You Need It

  • Immune System Armor: Provides over 100% of your daily Vitamin C needs in a single serving.
  • Digestive Harmony: High in fiber and electrolytes like potassium to support regularity and blood pressure.
  • Antioxidant Power: Contains glucosinolates that help fight inflammation.

The Science Behind the Crunch

Kohlrabi is a stealth bomber for your health. First, its Vitamin C content is the star player. This antioxidant is vital for collagen production (hello, healthy skin) and protecting cells from oxidative stress. Second, it is rich in potassium, a mineral that acts as a natural counterbalance to sodium, helping to relax blood vessels and maintain healthy blood pressure levels. Finally, like its brassica cousins, kohlrabi contains sulfur-based compounds called glucosinolates. When you chop or chew it, these compounds convert into isothiocyanates, which scientific research suggests may support the body's natural detoxification pathways and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Natural Food Sources

Kohlrabi is the star here, but you can find similar nutrients in its botanical cousins.

FoodServing SizeVitamin C (% Daily Value)
Kohlrabi (Raw)1 cup (135g)140%
Red Bell Pepper1 cup317%
Broccoli1 cup135%
Orange Juice1 cup120%
Kale1 cup134%

How to Eat It

Eat it raw for maximum crunch and Vitamin C retention, as heat can degrade the vitamin. Peel the tough outer skin before slicing. It cooks quickly—roasting brings out a nutty sweetness, while steaming preserves the mild flavor. If you find the flavor too 'grassy,' a squeeze of lemon or a dash of salt usually fixes it.

Supplementation

While you can take Vitamin C supplements, eating whole kohlrabi provides a synergistic blend of fiber and minerals that pills cannot replicate. Eating 1 cup of raw kohlrabi 3-4 times a week is sufficient to see health benefits.

Top Food Sources

Kohlrabi
1 cup = 140% DV Vitamin C
Kohlrabi Greens
Rich in Vitamins A & K
Broccoli Stems
Similar texture and nutrient profile

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, always peel it. The outer skin is tough, fibrous, and slightly bitter. Underneath, the flesh is crisp and sweet.
Absolutely! Kohlrabi greens are delicious and nutritious. Sauté them like spinach or kale. They taste like a mild mustard green.
Raw kohlrabi tastes like a broccoli stem or a mild, sweet radish. It's juicy and crunchy, similar to an apple but savory.
No, it is a 'stem' vegetable. The bulb grows above ground, while the roots go down.

Safety & Side Effects

Kohlrabi is generally safe for everyone. However, because it is high in fiber, eating massive amounts suddenly may cause temporary gas or bloating—introduce it gradually. It is also high in Vitamin K, which plays a role in blood clotting; if you are on blood-thinning medication (like Warfarin), keep your intake consistent and consult your doctor.

Scientific References

  • [1]USDA FoodData Central: Kohlrabi, raw.
  • [2]National Institutes of Health (NIH): Vitamin C Fact Sheet for Health Professionals.
  • [3]Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry: Glucosinolates and their breakdown products in cruciferous vegetables.