Reasons to Include Cocoyam in Your Diet.

Cocoyam, Colocasia asculenta, is also called taro and is a starchy root used as food. Cocoyam is widely used in Nigeria, especially in the rural areas where it is a part of the diet but they are disappearing from urban diets. There are two varieties of cocoyam in Nigeria. One is mainly used in South-East Nigeria to thicken soups like bitterleaf and oha. The other is prepared and consumed just like yam.

 Cocoyam has the following in terms of nutrition;

• High in complex carbohydrates.
• Gluten free.
• High in dietary fiber.
• Low in glycemic index.
• Low in fat content.
• Low in proteins.
• Contain vitamins like vitamin A, C, E, pyridoxine (B6), riboflavin, folate, thiamin and pantothenic acid.
• Contain minerals like zinc, potassium, copper, iron and magnesium.

Here are a few of the health benefits of cocoyam;

1. Their high potassium and vitamin B6 help to promote heart health and regulate blood pressure.
2. Cocoyam roots contain antioxidants like flavonoids and carotenes which protect the body from oxidative stress and diseases. They also boost the immune system.
3. They are a good source of dietary fiber.
4. They have complex carbohydrates which digest slowly. Because of this and their fiber content, they do not cause blood glucose spikes.

Cocoyam corms are easy to prepare and can be used in many ways. They can be boiled, fried, roasted, baked, pounded to a paste and used in soups. They are good to include in the diet because they are natural foods with a lot to offer for health and have a delicious taste. However if you are trying to lose weight or be healthy, eat in moderation and do not fry.

Comments, questions and feedbacks are welcome below. Send an email to yvonnebosede06@gmail.com or follow on Twitter @heal2bwell.