Jicama is one of the most underutilized vegetables in the world despite its abundance of health benefits. Known by different names in various parts of the world such as Mexican yam bean, Chinese turnip, lo bok or Mexican turnip, it is a sweet, crunchy root vegetable that makes for a fantastic addition to salads, soups, and stir-fry meals. More than being a tasty delight, jicama is packed with nutrients that are essential for your body. In this article, we’ll explore the nutrition benefits of jicama and why it should be a staple in your diet.
Low in Calories
Jicama is a great food choice if you are watching your calorie intake. It has a low glycemic index and contains only about 50 calories per cup of diced jicama. The high fiber content makes you feel fuller for a more extended period, making it a perfect snack for those trying to reduce their weight.
Rich in Fiber
High fiber is essential for a healthy digestive system, and jicama is an excellent source of both soluble and insoluble fiber. The insoluble fiber helps to move food through the digestive system, while the soluble fiber lowers cholesterol levels in the body. Adding jicama to your diet will ensure that you get the recommended daily intake of fiber.
Boosts Immune System
Jicama is packed with vitamin C, an antioxidant that helps boost your immune system. One cup of jicama contains about 44% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin C. The antioxidant properties help fight off infections, protect cells from damage and assist with the formulation of collagen. Furthermore, jicama contains inulin which acts as a prebiotic to promote the growth of healthy gut bacteria.
Rich in Minerals
Jicama is one of the best natural sources of potassium, magnesium, and iron. The body requires potassium for regular body functions such as muscle function, fluid balance, and nerve signaling. Magnesium helps support heart health and controls blood pressure levels. Iron is essential in the production of healthy red blood cells, and iron deficiency can cause anemia.
Conclusion
In summary, jicama is an excellent food choice that provides numerous health benefits. It is low in calories, rich in fiber, enhances the immune system, and is a great source of minerals. Adding this flavorful and nutritious vegetable to your diet can help improve your overall health. So why not make jicama a staple in your diet today?
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