The incredible benefits of eating jícama
By
Gretel Morales - 2021-08-17T12:49:23Z
The crunchy and fresh jicama is one of the most popular foods in our country, as it can be prepared as snacks, in salads, as tortillas, and in various stews. However, this tuber is not only very economical and yielding, but it is also a great option for children's lunch or as a snack if you are on a diet. At Kiwilimón, we tell you everything you need to know about the delicious jicama and its health benefits. What is jicama?Jicama, scientifically named Pachyrhizus erosus, is a fruit with a very sweet and fresh flavor, which also contains a large amount of water. Also known as Mexican turnip, jicama is a leguminous plant that originates from Mexico and Central America, where it is very popular. It is worth mentioning that the word jicama comes from the Nahuatl “xicamatl”, meaning watery root. According to experts, during colonization, the Spaniards took this tuber to the Philippine islands, where it gained popularity and later spread throughout Asia. Does jicama have health benefits?If you are wondering what jicama contributes to your diet, Kiwilimón has the answer. This delicious fruit contains a large number of vitamins and minerals, so we recommend incorporating it into your diet immediately. According to the Secretariat of Agriculture and Rural Development, here are some of the substances contained in jicama:Vitamin CVitamin EIronCalciumPhosphorusPotassiumMagnesiumAs if that weren't enough, jicama is also rich in fiber, making it a great ally for combating constipation and improving digestion. Additionally, this tuber contains very little sodium and calories, making it the perfect food if you want to lose weight or if you are looking to include more fruits and vegetables in your diet. Remember that because it is high in fiber and water, it will help you feel full for longer. The benefits of jicama don't stop here, as it also helps prevent fluid retention, combat high levels of cholesterol and triglycerides. For people with diabetes, this fruit is a great option, as it contains oligofructose, a substance that the human body does not metabolize, allowing diabetics to consume it as a snack without any problem. According to experts, the crunchy and delicious jicama also helps improve calcium absorption, which protects against diseases like osteoporosis. On the other hand, consuming this food also brings many benefits for the colon, as it is ideal for the growth of good bacteria. Additionally, this tuber also protects your heart, as its high potassium content reduces the risk of heart disease. So now you know, jicama is a great option for preparing nutritious salads and snacks for the whole family. However, remember that jicama contains a significant amount of carbohydrates, so it is advisable to eat an appropriate portion. How to prepare jicama?Now that you know this fruit is very good for bones, digestion, the heart, and overall health, prepare these easy and quick jicama recipes that Kiwilimón has for you:Jicama Salad Jicama Ceviche Tostadas Jicama Sorbet Jícatacos