OAFI at the 34th Popular Turnip Cuisine Fair in La Cerdanya

• OAFI was invited to celebrate at Ger, in la Cerdanya, the 34th Popular Cuisine Exhibition featuring turnips from La Cerdanya
  

This cita gastronómica emblemática showcases the turnip, a true gastronomic treasure that has given character to Cerdana cuisine since time immemorial.

From sowing at the end of July to harvesting in October, turnips grow slowly in the high mountain fields, nourished by rich, calcareous soil that gives them their unmistakable flavor. In autumn, this modest tuber becomes the star of a unique culinary festival, where cooks, chefs, housewives, and restaurateurs share recipes that evoke tradition and territory.

The Popular Cuisine Exhibition is much more than a lunch: it is a tribute to local produce, gastronomic memory, and the know-how that unites generations. Traditional dishes such as “duck neck stuffed with turnips” and “pig’s trotters” play a prominent role, inviting the public to discover—and savor—the most authentic essence of La Cerdanya.

This year, in its In its 34th edition, the exhibition kept its spirit intact: sharing the flavors of the land with all those who love local produce and heartfelt cuisine.

In addition, the day before, Dr. Vergés gave a very informative talk on joint health at the Ger Town Hall for the entire town.

Benefits of turnips for osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, and sarcopenia

Turnips provide benefits for osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, and sarcopenia, backed by scientific evidence on their nutritional and bioactive properties.

Osteoarthritis

Turnips contain glucosinolates and vitamin C, compounds with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that can help reduce joint inflammation and oxidative damage, key factors in osteoarthritis. The Spanish Nutrition Foundation highlights that consuming 100 grams of turnips covers 47% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin C, an essential nutrient for joint health and protecting cells from oxidative damage.

Osteoporosis

Turnips are a source of calcium, vitamin K, and potassium, nutrients that are essential for bone health. Calcium and vitamin K participate in the formation and maintenance of bone mineral density, while potassium helps neutralize metabolic acidity, which promotes calcium retention in the bones. Studies on diet and osteoporosis highlight the importance of foods rich in these minerals for preventing bone loss.

Sarcopenia

Although there are no direct studies on turnips and sarcopenia, their vitamin C, folate, and mineral (such as potassium) content promotes muscle function and collagen synthesis, which can help preserve muscle mass in older adults. In addition, fiber and antioxidants help reduce systemic inflammation, a factor that accelerates muscle loss in sarcopenia. In summary, turnips are a recommended functional food for people with osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, or at risk of sarcopenia, thanks to their nutritional profile and their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which are backed by scientific evidence.

Notable bibliography

https://www.heraldo.es/noticias/salud/2024/09/13/nabo-hortaliza-menos-querida-aliada-contra-colesterol-1762252.html

https://www.irbbarcelona.org/es/news/la-falta-de-una-unica-proteina-acelera-el-envejecimiento-muscular-en-ratones

http://scielo.isciii.es/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S2529-850X202100080000

http://scielo.isciii.es/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S1132-12962022000300007

https://www.in-pacient.es/noticia/son-eficaces-los-alimentos-fermentados-contra-las-enfermedades-inflamatorias-como-la-artritis-reumatoide/

https://www.geriatricarea.com/un-estudio-de-la-nasa-sobre-gravedad-0-podria-revelar-nuevos-tratamientos-para-la-osteoporosis/

Photo By Panxing Cerdanya

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About OAFI

Osteoarthritis Foundation International (OAFI) is the first and only non-profit foundation in the world dedicated exclusively to people suffering from osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, and other osteoarticular diseases. Founded in 2016 and based in Barcelona, OAFI leads the global fight for joint health, promoting education, prevention, research, and patient support programs. Its mission is to improve the quality of life of those living with these conditions by promoting early detection, self-care, and patient empowerment. Through international conferences, awareness campaigns, scientific projects, and collaborations, OAFI works to place joint health at the center of the health and social agenda.

📍 Barcelona, c/ Tuset, 19 – 3º 2ª
📞 Tel: 0034) 931 594 015
📧 info@oafifoundation.com
🌐 www.oafifoundation.com