This root vegetable is related to carrot and root parsley, and packed with healthy benefits not only for Humans, but also for our Furry Family Members. Parsnip is a little unappreciated, most probably due to unknowledgment of how to cook it and what Health Benefits it has.
Parsnip is safe for dogs to eat, but as any root vegetable, it must be fed in moderation. It is rich in Antioxidants, Fiber, Vitamins (Niacin = B3, C, Folat = B9, Potassium), and low in Carbohydrates. This root vegetable makes a great addition to our everyday diet as well as being beneficial for our furry family members.
Health Benefits:
Contains Calcium, Magnesium, and Potassium. Those Vitamines are essential for healthy bones, teeth, and nervous system.
Parsnip also contains Vitamin E, Vitamin K (protects liver from diseases), and B6. Nutrient content of Parsnip can help to boost not only our immune system, but also an Immune System of our Dogs, and benefit to kidney function.
Due to a high Fiber content, Parsnip is very beneficial for us and for our dogs in terms of Digestive System. But be very careful in terms of measurements of the amounts, due to a high Glycemic load, Parsnip should be fed and consumed in moderation.
Risks:
Due to a High Potassium level, it’s better to avoid Parsnip for dogs with Kidney problems and Diabetes. Same is related to Humans.
Due to a high content of Furocoumarins, consuming Parsnip raw in large quantities can cause indigestion and cause skin reactions. Better to consume it cooked.
How to Consume Parsnip Safely:
If you cut parsnip in small pieces and boil for about 1 Hour, you will be able to loose most of the potassium and sugars, and it will be much safer for your pet friend to consume. Remember, that vegetables should not be more than 10% of their total meal per day.
As mentioned before, when boiled, Parsnip looses most of the Sugar and Potassium. For dogs, it shall not be given raw. But for us, humans, raw Parsnip is very beneficial (see the recipe at the end of this post).
For Dogs:
Best way is to pill and cut Parsnip into small pieces and boil for at least 1 Hour. Boiling is better than Backing or Steaming, because it helps to get ride of an excess Sugar and Potassium. And it will are it much more beneficial for your furry friend digestion.
For Humans:
Due to being rich in fiber, Parsnip aids in digestion and aids helps to diversify Gut Microbiome.
Parsnip is very beneficial for our Immune system due to its antioxidant properties. It helps to regulate blood pressure and has anti-inflammatory properties.
Due to high content of Vitamin K, Parsnip can help to support Blood Clotting, Bone Health, and Cardiovascular Health.
Diet:
Parsnips are high in Fiber and Low in Calories, which makes them perfect inclusion in a daily duet for us Humans when we wish to loose weight. It filled us up faster with less amount, and has a great taste (much tastier than a regular carrot). And when added during cooking stews, it gives a very mild and creamy taste.
Perfect pairing is when you make stew with goat ribs, parsnip, carrots and yellow onions.
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