Jicama: Calories and Nutrition Analyse

Discover the Nutritional Powerhouse: Jicama

Often overlooked in the produce aisle, jicama is a crunchy, sweet, and nutty root vegetable that deserves a spotlight for its nutritional benefits. Known for its versatility in dishes ranging from salads to stir-fries, jicama is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. Let's dive into the jicama nutrition facts to understand why this vegetable should be part of your diet.

Jicama Calories and Macronutrients

One of the most appealing aspects of jicama is its low calorie content. With only 38 calories per 100 grams, it's a fantastic choice for anyone monitoring their calorie intake. But don't let its low-calorie count fool you; jicama is rich in important nutrients.

When it comes to carbs in jicama, it contains about 8.82 grams per 100 grams, most of which comes from dietary fiber (4.9 grams). This high fiber content helps promote digestive health and can aid in weight management by keeping you feeling full longer.

Although not a high-protein food, jicama provides a modest 0.72 grams of protein per 100 grams. As for fat in jicama, it's virtually fat-free, with only 0.09 grams per serving, making it an excellent addition to a low-fat diet.

Vitamins and Minerals in Jicama

Jicama is not just about macronutrients; it's also a treasure trove of vitamins and minerals. It's an excellent source of vitamin C, providing 20.2 mg per 100 grams, which is about 22% of the recommended daily intake. Vitamin C is crucial for immune function, skin health, and iron absorption.

Other notable nutrients include vitamin E (0.46 mg), essential for protecting cells from oxidative damage, and a range of B-vitamins like vitamin B6 (0.042 mg), vitamin B3 (0.2 mg), and vitamin B2 (0.029 mg), which play vital roles in energy metabolism.

In terms of minerals, jicama provides a good source of potassium (150 mg), important for blood pressure regulation, and magnesium (12 mg), which supports muscle and nerve function. It also contains small amounts of calcium (12 mg) and iron (0.6 mg), contributing to bone health and oxygen transport, respectively.

The Role of Jicama in a Healthy Diet

Given its nutrient profile, jicama can play a significant role in a healthy diet. Its high fiber and water content (90.07%) make it excellent for hydration and digestive health. Additionally, with its low glycemic index, jicama is a suitable choice for people managing blood sugar levels.

Whether you're looking to add crunch to your salads, a sweet contrast in your stir-fries, or a healthy snack to your diet, jicama is a versatile vegetable that can meet your needs. Plus, its nutritional benefits, from aiding in weight management to supporting overall health, make it a must-try for anyone looking to enrich their diet with more vegetables.

In conclusion, the jicama nutrition profile highlights its low calorie, high fiber, and rich vitamin and mineral content, making it an excellent addition to a balanced diet. So next time you're at the grocery store, don't pass by this nutritional powerhouse. Give jicama a try and enjoy the myriad of health benefits it has to offer.