Jicama, also known as yambean, is a type of bulbous root vegetable. People describe jicama as being a cross between a turnip and an apple.
Jicama is originally from the Mexican peninsula, and has played an essential part in traditional cuisines of populations living in the Caribbean, Central and South America, and parts of Asia for years.
Health Benefits of Jicama:
1. Better Digestion
Jicama is one of the great source of fiber. It is a well-known as source of a soluble fiber known as oligofructose inulin.
Inulin is a type of carbohydrate that helps digestive function. Fiber is needed in helping the intestine to absorb other nutrients and keeping a healthy bowel movement.
2. Blood Pressure Management
Jicama is able to manage blood pressure because it is a rich source of potassium. Also, it is a vasodilator, and reduces the tension on arteries and blood vessels, thereby lowering stress on the cardiovascular system.
Potassium is also needed for maintaining fluid balance, in opposition to sodium throughout the body, therefore, keeping the body functioning at a high level and hydrated.
3. Heart Health
Jicama contains high nutrient density, water and is largely made of different types of carbohydrate molecules. Oligofructose inulin, comprises a good percentage of the fiber present in jicama, is associated to improved cardiovascular health and has the capability to lower cholesterol naturally.
A diet that includes high amount of high-fiber foods is capable of reducing inflammation and improving arterial health, therefore offering protection against chronic diseases including high cholesterol or blood pressure, metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance and diabetes. Other nutrients which is present in jicama that promote heart health include potassium, an important for controlling blood sugar levels and vitamin C, which is a powerful anti-inflammatory.
4. Strengthen Bones
The minerals such as magnesium, manganese, copper and iron present in jicama means that this root vegetable is a major booster for your bone mineral density. These minerals are important for healing any damage to existing bones and building strong, new bones.
Also, this is the best way to prevent the onset of conditions such as osteoporosis, which millions of individuals suffer from all over the world.
5. Weight Loss
Low-calorie foods are essential for those trying to lose weight, most especially when those low-calorie foods are also loaded with dietary fiber and nutrients to make you feel full.
Also, jicama only contains 35 calories per 100 grams, and is loaded with fiber and nutrients. It is also a perfect snack to curb your cravings and reduce your appetite, minus the weight gain and lose of any nutritional benefits.
Jicama Recipe:
Jicama Slaw
Ingredients:
3 Tbsp fresh lime juice
2 lbs. jicama, peeled and cut into julienne strips (8 cups)
2 Tbsp. coconut oil
2 tsp sugar
¾ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
1 medium chopped red onion
1/3 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro
Directions:
1. Whisk together the oil, lime juice, salt, sugar, and pepper in a large bowl, until it iswell combined.
2. Add the jicama, cilantro and onion.
3. Toss well.
Sources:
Organicfacts
Dr. Axe
Dr. Health Benefits
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