Estimated reading time: 2 minutes
Tapioca is obtained from the root of the cassava plant. Tapioca flour, also known as tapioca starch, is often used in combination with other gluten-free flours for pastries. Tapioca is gluten-free and is ideal for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. Tapioca is a rich source of energy and easy to digest, low in saturated fat, and sodium.
The health benefits of tapioca
1. Tapioca is gluten-free and is suitable for those suffering from celiac disease and can be used instead of gluten flour. It is found in a wide variety of gluten-free products, such as snacks, desserts, flour, and thickeners.
2. Tapioca helps in weight loss, as it ensures the feeling of satiety due to the low glycemic index and reduces the deposition of fats in the cells, keeping normal values of triglycerides and lipids in the blood.
3. Tapioca provides energy to children, athletes, but also to those who need to recover after a period of illness, it is recommended after convalescence because it helps to regain strength. It is rich in carbohydrates and can keep you energized without adding fat.
4. Tapioca has a low sodium content and is a good choice for those who want to reduce the amount of salt in their diet.
5. Tapioca is light food, helps digestion, and can be eaten even by children. Tapioca contains resistant starch, which is important for intestinal health, having a strong anti-inflammatory effect.
6. Because it is easily digested, tapioca is an excellent food for colitis. It contains very little cellulose, a vegetable substance that does not disperse in the stomach and this makes it easy to assimilate without leaving residues.
7. Tapioca contains many calories, but from a nutritional point of view, it is deficient in vitamins, proteins, and minerals. Therefore, tapioca should be combined with foods that contain vitamins, proteins, fats, and minerals to compensate for the missing elements.
8. Tapioca is an excellent source of potassium and prevents strokes and heart attacks, as it lowers the risk of atherosclerosis and blood clots. It also contains iron which ensures a better flow of blood and oxygen to the cells.
9. Tapioca contains vitamin K, in addition to iron and calcium, important elements for bone development, which protects against the risk of osteoporosis, osteoarthritis and bone fragility. Vitamin K also reduces the risk of Alzheimer’s disease, as it stimulates the neuronal activity of the brain and contrasts with the harmful action of free radicals.
If you want to find out about rice, check out our article on this topic: 25 facts about rice.
[Photo from Pixabay]
