Yucca root is a starchy, tuberous root grown in tropical and subtropical areas. This sweet potato look-alike is a staple food in many developing countries worldwide. Yucca is extremely drought tolerant and capable of growing in average soil, so it’s a great crop to grow in dry climates. Yucca root, or Cassava, sometimes gets confused with a plant that’s native to the United States desert, also Yucca, but pronounced differently.
You may have seen this dark brown long tuber at your grocery aisle but didn’t know what it was. Once you learn these fifteen benefits of yucca root most people ignore, you may want to add yucca root to your regular diet.
Is yucca root poisonous?
Yes! Yucca root is poisonous if eaten raw. This tuber contains chemicals that trigger the release of poisonous hydrogen cyanide. Thousands of people experience cyanide poisoning from Cassava, another name for yucca root. Be sure to cook the root pieces thoroughly. Soaking and then cooking Cassava makes the compounds harmless. Even in areas where Cassava is eaten regularly, sometimes people don’t cook it thoroughly, leading to serious health problems such as:
Risk of goiter Neuropathy Paralyzed legs in kids Low iodine levels Weakness Walking problems Feeling like something is on your feet Feeling intoxicated Death
What’s the safest way to prepare Yucca?
According to the CDC, the safest way to prepare yucca root is to soak the tubers in water for four to six days before cooking them. Then, follow these directions to prepare it safely:
First, peel the yucca root. Cut it up into small pieces. Soak these pieces in water for four to six days. Boil until thoroughly cooked. Discard any cooking water. Always follow the packaging instructions to fry, bake, or roast yucca root. 15 Benefits of Yucca Root Most People Ignore
Add this tuber to your diet for these healthful boosts.
1 – High in vitamin C
Yucca root is high in vitamin C. Vitamin C fights oxidative stress that affects your immune system. This potent vitamin also helps.
Heal injuries It helps form your blood vessels Builds cartilage and muscle Forms collagen in your bones
If you’re having difficulty getting enough vitamin C, add some yucca root to your weekly menu. It will boost your vitamin C levels and give you an excellent alternative food to try.
2 – Anti-Aging
Resveratrol is a natural antioxidant compound that fights free radicals which damage your body. Yucca root contains a fair amount of resveratrol. Cassava regenerates your skin cells and reverses damage caused by the sun. It’s in some organic cosmetics.
Adding it to your diet once gives you an anti-aging boost and makes your skin look great.
3 – Low Glycemic Index
Your glycemic index measures how much a particular food raises blood sugar levels. Food with a high glycemic index causes blood sugar levels to rise quickly, leading to diabetes symptoms like weight loss and fatigue. For example, although yucca root is starch, it has a low glycemic index. Boiled potatoes’ glycemic index is 78, but this root has a low 46 glycemic level. As a result, Cassava makes it a better alternative and avoids causing blood …
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