Wasabi or Japanese horseradish is usually one of the condiments that is served with sushi and it has a spicy flavor that spikes through the sinuses. We oftentimes see wasabi as a green paste stored in a toothpaste-like tube but it actually is the grated root of the Japanese horseradish plant. Moreover, planting and growing this is a very intricate process and there are only a few places in Japan where it can be grown.
Aside from the added flavour, it provides many Japanese dishes, particularly sushi, including wasabi in your food has some health benefits. Here are some of them:
#1. It clears the sinuses
If you have eaten wasabi with your favorite sushi rice recipe, you will notice that its spiciness gets into your nostrils that can be uncomfortable. This actually is a very good thing because this helps in clearing up the sinuses which is very helpful if you are suffering from clogged nose due to colds.
#2. Wasabi is antibacterial
Taking wasabi if you are starting to have symptoms of colds or flu is a good idea because this has natural antibacterial properties. Eating wasabi will help you fight off viral illnesses and infections so you can get well quicker.
#3. It aids healthy digestion
Wasabi is also rich in fiber and as we all know, fiber is necessary for us to have a regular bowel movement and a healthy digestive system. Also, the antibacterial properties of wasabi will keep the unhealthy bacteria in your stomach at bay.
#4. It has anti-inflammatory properties
Wasabi also has anti-inflammatory properties which are extremely helpful for those experiencing gout and arthritis. Although wasabi is not a cure for these, adding this to your diet will help alleviate the pain you may be experiencing.
#5. It helps fight cancer
Wasabi is rich in anti-oxidants as well. Foods rich in antioxidants can help fight all sorts of cancer. There were also recent studies that prove wasabi aids in eliminating free radicals; therefore, it inhibits the development of cancer cells in the body.
#6. It boosts the immune system
Vitamin C is one of the nutrients that we need so we can have a stronger immune system and wasabi is rich in this essential vitamin. A teaspoon of wasabi each day already provides the amount of Vitamin C that your body needs daily.
#7. It promotes weight loss
Wasabi is low in calorie and high in fiber so eating wasabi along with other low-fat food can aid your weight loss. Aside from that, the fiber in wasabi can also help boost the metabolism which is necessary for faster weight loss. However, keep in mind that wasabi alone will not make you lose weight. Any weight loss effects that wasabi may have will only aid in your other weight loss efforts.
Now that you know about wasabi’s health benefits, feel free to put a bigger dollop on your sushi rice and in your dipping soy sauce. You have more reasons now not to forget this spicy paste when eating your favorite Japanese dishes.
