Jicama: A Low-Calorie, High-Fiber Root Vegetable
Jicama is a root vegetable that is native to Mexico and Central America. It is a member of the legume family, and it is related to beans, peas, and lentils. Jicama has a mild, slightly sweet flavor, and it is often eaten raw or cooked.
Jicama is a good source of dietary fiber, vitamin C, and potassium. It also contains a number of other vitamins and minerals, including iron, magnesium, and zinc.
Nutritional Value of Jicama
One cup of sliced jicama contains the following nutrients:
- Calories: 46
- Protein: 0.9 grams
- Fat: 0.1 grams
- Carbohydrates: 11 grams
- Fiber: 5.9 grams
- Sugar: 2.2 grams
Health Benefits of Jicama
Jicama is a healthy food that offers a number of health benefits. These benefits include:
- Weight loss: Jicama is a low-calorie food that is high in fiber. This makes it a good choice for people who are trying to lose weight.
- Improved digestion: The fiber in jicama can help to improve digestion and prevent constipation.
- Reduced cholesterol levels: The fiber in jicama can help to reduce cholesterol levels by binding to cholesterol in the digestive tract and preventing it from being absorbed into the bloodstream.
- Lower blood sugar levels: The fiber in jicama can help to lower blood sugar levels by slowing down the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream.
- Improved heart health: The potassium in jicama can help to lower blood pressure and improve heart health.
How to Eat Jicama
Jicama can be eaten raw, cooked, or juiced. Here are a few ideas for how to enjoy jicama:
- Raw: Jicama can be eaten raw as a snack or added to salads, slaws, and other dishes.
- Cooked: Jicama can be cooked in a variety of ways, including stir-frying, roasting, and boiling.
- Juiced: Jicama juice is a refreshing and healthy drink that can be enjoyed on its own or added to other juices or smoothies.
Conclusion
Jicama is a delicious and nutritious root vegetable that offers a number of health benefits. It is a good source of dietary fiber, vitamin C, and potassium, and it can be eaten raw, cooked, or juiced. If you are looking for a healthy and versatile food to add to your diet, jicama is a great option.
How many calories are in Jicama?
Each 1 cup slices of Jicama contains 46 calories.
Jicama Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per 1 cup slices (120g) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 46 Calories |
| Protein | 0.9g |
| Fat | 0.1g |
| Saturated Fat | 0g |
| Cholesterol | 0mg |
| Carbohydrates | 11g |
| Dietary Fiber | 5.9g |
| Sugar | 2.2g |
| Sodium | 0.0048mg |
| Potassium | 0.18mg |
| Calcium | 0.014mg |
| Iron | 0.0007mg |