It is possible to get bored of eating only a type of food as a health food lover. A great way to avoid this is to try out new-to-you foods with great health benefits. Jicama is a sweet and crunchy vegetable alternative to turnips and carrots.
What Is Jicama?
Jicama, also called Mexican turnip, yam bean, or Mexican turnip, is a sweet and crunchy root originating from Mexico. It belongs to the bean family. However, its tuberous root is consumed, and many consider it a root vegetable.
Jicama has thick and brown skin like a light brown beet. On the other hand, it looks like a raw potato inside and tastes like an apple. However, jicama is not as sweet as an apple, and it does not brown like an apple after cutting.
How To Eat Jicama
The traditional way of eating jicama is peeling and slicing it into strips. You can munch it raw with lemon or lime juice and chili powder.
Furthermore, jicama has porous flesh and can absorb flavors very well. Therefore, you can marinate jicama with citrus and spice and then add it to a salad. Jicama can also be combined with papaya, mango, or pineapple to make tropical fruit salad.
You can cook jicama, but it does not require much heat. Jicama also goes well with olives, greens, hummus, grilled fish, and roasted pork. You can also add it to Mexican-style soup or chili.
Benefits Of Jicama
Nutrient Dense
Although jicama has low calories, it is rich in nutrients. Jicama is low in sugar and fat but rich in fiber, minerals, and vitamins.
It is an ideal food choice for people that wants to lose weight and still get a healthy balance of vitamins and minerals.
Furthermore, jicama is a great alternative to starchy and higher carbohydrate vegetables.
Helps To Regulate Blood Sugar
Jicama is rich in fiber and has a low glycemic index, which helps prevent spikes in blood sugar levels. This makes it a good food choice for people who have diabetes.
For Boosting Heart Health
Jicama comprises several nutrients that can improve heart health. Jicama contains potassium, iron, copper, and nitrates that help to relax the blood vessels, lowering blood pressure. This boosts heart health by lowering cholesterol levels and improving blood circulation.
Aids Digestion
Jicama has a rich amount of dietary fiber and water to help increase stool bulk. Jicama also contains a fiber called inulin that helps increase bowel movements frequency for people suffering from constipation.
Reduce Cancer Risk
Jicama is rich in prebiotics, fibers, antioxidants like Vitamins C and E, beta-carotene, and selenium that help prevent cell damage and cancer in the body.
Summary
Jicama is a sweet and starchy root vegetable with lots of health benefits. It is very low in fats, sugars, and calories but rich in essential vitamins, minerals, and fibers. It is also very versatile, and can be eaten cooked or raw.
After you come in for your treatment at Holistic Health Care Centers, go home and enjoy a delicious meal with Jicama. We are wishing you well!