by Christine Pesta
Taro root is an Asian root vegetable that is now cultivated worldwide. It is high in fiber, and has many beneficial vitamins and minerals. There are many ways the root can be prepared. One of the ways people are most familiar with taro root is in the form of poi. However, you can make chips or fries out of taro root as well as mash it, steam it, make ice cream or smoothies with it, or put it in a soup or stew.
Note: Keep in mind that taro root should only be eaten cooked. By cooking the root, the compounds contained within it, which can cause a stinging or burning sensation to your mouth, will be deactivated.
High Fiber Content
As mentioned above, taro root contains a high amount of fiber per cup (approximately 6.5 to 7 grams). This can be beneficial in many ways to the body. Our bodies require fiber to keep our systems working smoothly and efficiently. Diets high in fiber can help fight many conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and high cholesterol.
Weight Control
Taro root can help lower body fat. The high content of fiber can help you feel full as it remains in the system longer, making you feel full for longer, which reduces the craving to eat through the day, resulting in fewer calories consumed.
Helps Diabetes by Lowering and Maintaining Blood Sugar Levels
The resistant starch in taro root can lower blood sugar and slow the digestion rate in individuals with Type II Diabetes. A high-fiber diet, containing 40 to 45 grams of fiber per day, according to several studies, decreases spikes as the fiber is not absorbed into the body.
Improves The Digestive System
Whether you suffer from diverticulitis, acid reflux, ulcers, or constipation, taro root can aid in improving or preventing many stomach and digestive problems. It can increase the level of good bacteria, thereby improving your gut health. Increasing the good bacteria in your gut can also increase your immunity and strengthen colon health.
Helps Fight Heart Disease
Antioxidants are essential in maintaining a healthy body. They combat free radicals in the fight against cancer, they have anti-inflammatory properties which can aid in conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, and hypertension. The polyphenol, quercetin, is one of the very helpful components which provide those benefits as well as anti-viral properties. The taro root and its leaves are both high in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals such as manganese, vitamin E, and vitamin B6, copper and folate and both are edible. The high level of potassium in taro root is also key in helping the heart by reducing blood pressure.
There are many other ways in which your body and your taste buds can benefit from incorporating taro root into your diet. Give it a try to increase the variety of foods you consume and benefits your body can reap!
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Christine Pesta is a writer, and the owner and Executive Editor of Live Your Life Vegan. You can follow her here, on Live Your Life Vegan, where she contributes regularly, as well as on social media.
