Taro root has many health benefits, such as support muscle and nerve health; prevent heart disease; aid the immune system; decrease blood pressure; increase circulation; enhance vision; protect the skin; prevent certain types of cancers; lower blood sugar levels and improve digestion. Taro root is thick and tuber stalk and it is very important part of the global cuisines and diets for thousands of years.
It is considered that taro is one of the first cultivated plants in the history. The scientific name of taro root is Colocasia esculenta. It is believed that it is native to Southeast Asia and Southern India but it is cultivated and used in many places all around the world. Taro root is a staple food in Oceanic, Indian and African cuisines.
Taro root is high in calories. In every 100 grams of taro root there are 112 calories which can be a problem for people who want to lose weight. Taro root has more carbohydrate by volume than potatoes so if you are not careful how much taro root you eat, then it can lead to obesity. You should eat taro root in moderation so in this way you will not add extra pounds. Here are some health benefits of taro root:
Taro root increased circulation
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It has minerals, like iron and copper, which can help to prevent anemia and boost the circulation throughout your body. Both minerals can help in the production of red blood cells which carry all-important oxygen to our cells and systems. It can help to lower the chances of anemia and it will boost the flow of blood through your body. This can help to increase the metabolic activity, growth of new cells and the general oxygenation of the body which can result in organs and systems to function at their optimal levels.
Taro root boost immune system
IT can help to boost your immune system. It is rich in Vitamin C which can help the immune system to create white blood cells and this will defend your body from foreign pathogens and agents. Also, Vitamin C is acting as antioxidant which can help to prevent some conditions, like cancer and heart disease.
Skin care
You should add taro root in your diet because it has Vitamin E and Vitamin A which will protect your skin. Both vitamins can help to eliminate skin conditions and they will boost the overall cellular health. This means that wounds and blemishes will heal faster, wrinkles will be diminished and the healthy glow of your skin will be returned. Taro root can help you to have healthier skin.
Vision health
It has many antioxidants, such as cryptoxanthin and beta – carotene. These antioxidants can help to improve the vision and to prevent free radicals from attacking our cells and causing cataracts or macular degeneration.
Improved heart health
It has a significant amount of potassium which is very important mineral for staying healthy and functional. This mineral can facilitate healthy fluid transfers between membranes and tissues throughout our bodies but also it can give you a relief from the stress and pressure on arteries and blood vessels. When the veins and blood vessels are relaxed, then the blood pressure can be reduced and this can reduce the stress on the overall cardiovascular system. Potassium can increase the cognitive function because neural connections can be boosted when the blood pressure is reduced and the fluid transfer between neural membranes is optimized.
Diabetes prevention
It is known fact that the dietary fiber can help to lower the chances of developing diabetes because it can help to regulate the release of insulin and glucose in the body. If you have enough fiber in your body, then it can help to manage your glycemic levels and lower your chances of developing diabetes. If you suffer from diabetes, then you can add taro root in your diet, because its fiber content can help to prevent dangerous spikes plunges in the blood sugar.
Cancer prevention
Taro root has Vitamin A and Vitamin C which can fight against free radicals in the body that are cause for cancer. Also, they can boost your immune system. Also, taro root has cryptoxanthin which can lower the chances of developing oral and lung cancers.