Is Horseradish Good for You?

Horseradish and rasp

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The root of the horseradish plant can be eaten raw or used to create horseradish sauce. Horseradish is frequently used on sandwiches, in marinades and as an accompaniment to meats. Its sharp, pungent, spicy flavor can provide a unique flavor contrast. Horseradish also provides significant nutritional benefits.

Calories, Fat, Cholesterol and Sodium

One tablespoon of prepared horseradish contains about 7.2 total calories, and only about 0.1 grams of total fat. The horseradish contains virtually no saturated fat and no cholesterol. The horseradish contains about 47.1 milligrams of sodium, which is about 2 percent of your recommended daily sodium intake. Since excessive sodium consumption can contribute to high blood pressure and related conditions, avoid eating other foods that are high in sodium with horseradish.

Carbohydrates, Fiber and Protein

There are about 1.7 grams of carbohydrates in the horseradish, with 0.5 grams of total dietary fiber, or about 2 percent of your recommended daily fiber intake. There are also about 1.2 grams of total sugars, which is 2.4 percent of your sugar intake recommendation. The horseradish only contains about 0.2 grams of protein, which is 0.4 percent of your daily recommended intake of protein, a nutrient your body uses to repair itself after injury or exercise.

Vitamins and Minerals

That one tablespoon of prepared horseradish contains about 3.7 milligrams of vitamin C -- roughly 6 percent of your daily requirement. It also contains 8.5 micrograms of folate, which is 2.1 percent of your daily requirement. There are nearly 37 milligrams of potassium -- about 1 percent of your daily intake recommendation -- and 8.4 milligrams of calcium, which is just under 1 percent of your daily requirement.

Glucosinolates

According to MSNBC, horseradish is one of the richest foods in glucosinolates available. Glucosinolates are a type of glucose-containing compound that can help prevent the appearance of new tumors and fight the growth of existing tumors. The glucosinolates in horseradish can also contribute to the elimination of free radicals, which can increase your risk of cancer and other health conditions.