Skin Benefits Of Cassava
Plantains are the less sweet, starchier equivalent to the banana. Sweet bananas, sometimes called “dessert bananas” are much more popular in the United States and Europe, but plantains are an extremely important staple for people in tropical countries. Unlike dessert bananas, plantains are almost always cooked before eating. In fact, they taste pretty awful raw, so don’t be tricked by their banana-like features. Cooked plantains are nutritionally very similar to a potato, calorie-wise, but contain more of certain vitamins and minerals. They’re a rich source of fiber, vitamins A, C, and B-6, and the minerals magnesium and potassium.
BENEFITS OF CASSAVA
- Smoothens And Brightens Your Complexion
The peel of cassava plants can be used as a skin exfoliator. You can split the peels, make a fresh paste out of it and use it as a scrub. Brush the face well for a few minutes and wash it off with cold water. Do this thrice a week to get good results. - Boosts Energy And Improves Brain Function
Since cassava flour is high in carbohydrates, it helps in boosting energy. Not only that, your brain will begin to work more efficiently when you add cassava flour to your meals. Every serving contains 80% of carbohydrates, which is more than enough for your daily consumption. - Beneficial For Nerve Health
Some experts believe that cassava flour is essential for a balanced nervous system. Not only does it fight stress and anxiety, but also provides support to your overall health. - Maintains Healthy Muscles
If you are health conscious, cassava flour will definitely help you build strong and lean muscles. It contains protein that maintains your muscle health and nourishes the tissues. One serving contains 2 grams of protein, which is enough to meet your daily requirements. - Lowers Blood Pressure
Another amazing benefit of cassava flour is that it significantly lowers blood pressure. This is again because it is high in dietary fiber. Every cup of cassava flour increases your fiber intake by 4 grams. This significantly contributes towards the ideal fiber intake recommended for women on a regular basis. - Makes You Less Prone To Diseases
With cassava flour, you can lower the chances of diseases such as osteoporosis. This is because it contains essential minerals such as copper and magnesium that promote a healthy lifestyle. One cup of cassava contains only 206 grams of copper, which covers around 24% of your daily requirement. - Great Face Mask
Cassava plants also act as great face masks. Before you prepare your face mask, make sure you have washed your face with warm water. This will help in opening up the pores. The cassava mask will easily
Nutritional Value Of Cassava
The table below will give you a clear idea on the nutritional value of cassava. One cup of raw cassava contains:- Calories: 330
- Total fat: One gram
- Cholesterol: Zero percent
- Sodium: 29 grams
- Carbohydrates: 78 grams
- Dietary fiber: 4 grams
- Sugars: 4 grams
- Protein: 3 grams
Uses Of Cassava
Cassava plants can also be put to several uses. You can prepare soups and stews by using this as the core ingredient. This will fill up your stomach and help you stay full for a longer period. Since it is a starchy vegetable, it contains an element of thickness that stimulates the appetite and also lasts for a long time. However, be careful while you are using this plant. Excessive consumption brings you one step closer to nutritional deficiencies and diseases.
Word Of Caution
This popular tuber also has some side effects that you should be aware of. Here are a few of them:- Cassava contains a toxin called linamarin. When eaten raw, the human digestive system converts this toxin into cyanide, which can prove to be fatal. The cassava root rots quickly, which leads to depletion in its nutritional value. It can also cause fungal and bacterial infections. The toxic substances in cassava are known to affect the pituitary gland and impact the functioning of liver and kidneys.
Now, don’t let these side effects scare you away! If you peel, clean, and cook cassava well, there is no reason why you cannot enjoy its goodness without worrying about toxins! Cleaning and cooking flush out all the toxins from cassava and makes it completely eatable.
Nature is miraculous, isn’t it? Something that is toxic can turn into a health boon! Amazing! Plants like cassava are often misunderstood. But with knowledge comes power. Now that you know about cassava benefits and how it can help you lead a healthier, more beautiful life, there is no reason to shy away from it. But like always, don’t forget to talk to a doctor and discuss cassava benefits and side effects to avoid complications!
Are you aware of any other benefits of eating cassava? Please share with us in the comment box given below. Your thoughts and opinions are always precious to us!