Is Burdock Tea a High-Calcium Health Drink? Nutritional Insights

Burdock root juice or tea?

Is burdock juice or tea considered a high-calcium health supplement? What is the calcium content? Thank you.

NE, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/05/15

Dr. Cai Xiuwen reply Nutrition

Hello! Burdock root, when juiced, contains approximately 46 mg of calcium per 100 grams, which is relatively high among root vegetables.
However, when prepared as burdock tea, the calcium content in the tea itself is quite low.
Burdock is rich in dietary fiber, which is beneficial for intestinal health, and it is recommended for those who are prone to constipation.
Wishing you peace and health.
This information is provided by Dietitian Tsai Hsiu-Wen from Nantou Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2020/05/15

More Info

Burdock tea, derived from the burdock root, is often touted for its various health benefits, but when it comes to its calcium content, it is essential to clarify some points. While burdock root itself contains a moderate amount of calcium, the process of making tea from the root significantly alters its nutritional profile.

When burdock root is consumed in its whole form, it contains approximately 46 milligrams of calcium per 100 grams. This amount is relatively high compared to many other root vegetables, making burdock a good source of calcium when consumed directly. However, when burdock root is brewed into tea, the calcium content in the resulting liquid is considerably lower. This is because the steeping process extracts some nutrients but does not retain all of them in the tea. Therefore, while burdock root can contribute to calcium intake when consumed as a whole food, burdock tea cannot be classified as a high-calcium health drink.

In terms of health benefits, burdock root is rich in dietary fiber, which is beneficial for digestive health. It contains inulin, a type of prebiotic fiber that promotes the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. This can aid in digestion and improve overall gut health. Additionally, burdock root is known for its antioxidant properties, which can help combat oxidative stress in the body.

For individuals looking to increase their calcium intake, it is advisable to consider other sources that are more concentrated in calcium. Dairy products, leafy green vegetables, fortified plant-based milks, and certain fish (like sardines) are excellent sources of calcium. If you enjoy burdock tea for its flavor and potential health benefits, it can certainly be a part of a balanced diet, but it should not be relied upon as a primary source of calcium.

Moreover, if you are considering using burdock tea for specific health conditions or as a supplement to your diet, it is always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian. They can provide personalized advice based on your individual health needs and dietary preferences.

In summary, while burdock root is a nutritious vegetable with some calcium content, burdock tea does not qualify as a high-calcium health drink. It is beneficial for its fiber and antioxidant properties, but for calcium needs, one should look to other dietary sources.

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