Health Benefits of Cassava as a Medicine
Cassava is a popular root vegetable that is commonly found in tropical regions. It is a staple food for millions of people around the world. Cassava is also known for its medicinal properties. In this article, we will discuss the various health benefits of cassava as a medicine.
Table of Contents
Improving Digestion
Cassava contains a high amount of fiber which helps in regulating bowel movements and preventing constipation. One cup of cassava provides about 3 grams of fiber which is about 10% of the daily requirement for an adult. Fiber also helps in reducing the risk of colon cancer.
Managing Diabetes
Cassava has a low glycemic index which makes it a suitable food for people with diabetes. Glycemic index measures the effect of carbohydrates on blood sugar levels. Cassava also contains resistant starch which is a type of carbohydrate that is resistant to digestion. Resistant starch helps in regulating blood sugar levels and improves insulin sensitivity.
Improving Heart Health
Cassava is rich in potassium which is an essential mineral for maintaining heart health. Potassium helps in regulating blood pressure and prevents the risk of stroke. One cup of cassava provides about 558 mg of potassium which is about 12% of the daily requirement for an adult.
Cassava also contains dietary fiber which helps in reducing cholesterol levels in the blood. High cholesterol levels are a major risk factor for heart disease. Fiber binds with cholesterol in the gut and prevents its absorption by the body. This helps in reducing the levels of LDL or bad cholesterol in the blood.
Supporting Immune System
Cassava is a rich source of vitamin C which is an essential nutrient for the immune system. Vitamin C helps in boosting the production of white blood cells which fight against infections and diseases. One cup of cassava provides about 42 mg of vitamin C which is about 70% of the daily requirement for an adult.
Cassava also contains zinc which is another essential nutrient for the immune system. Zinc helps in the production of antibodies which fight against infections. Zinc also helps in wound healing and tissue repair.
Cassava also has anti-inflammatory properties which help in reducing inflammation in the body. Inflammation is the root cause of many chronic diseases like arthritis, heart disease, and cancer.
Managing Weight
Cassava is a low-calorie food which makes it an ideal food for weight management. One cup of cassava provides about 330 calories. Cassava is also rich in dietary fiber which helps in reducing appetite and promoting feelings of fullness. Fiber also helps in reducing the absorption of calories by the body.
Reducing Birth Defects
Cassava is a rich source of folic acid which is an essential nutrient for pregnant women. Folic acid helps in preventing birth defects like spina bifida and anencephaly. One cup of cassava provides about 25% of the daily requirement of folic acid for pregnant women.
Boosting Brain Function
Cassava is a rich source of thiamine and iron which are essential nutrients for brain function. Thiamine helps in the production of neurotransmitters which are chemicals that transmit signals in the brain. Iron helps in the production of hemoglobin which carries oxygen to the brain. Cassava also contains cyanide which is a toxic substance. Proper cooking techniques like boiling, baking, and frying can eliminate the cyanide content in cassava.
Conclusion
Cassava is a nutrient-rich food that is packed with various health benefits. It is a low-calorie food that is suitable for weight management. It also helps in improving digestion, managing diabetes, supporting the immune system, reducing birth defects, and boosting brain function. Cassava can be consumed in various forms like cassava root, leaves, flour, and starch.
References:
- Resistant Starch: Promise for Improving Human Health
- Health benefits of dietary fiber
- Cassava for food and energy security: The potential of biofortification
- Zinc in Human Health: Effect of Zinc on Immune Cells
- Cyanide in Cassava: The Science and the Risks