Not everyone is familiar with the term Jicama, but you might have eaten it at one point especially when you love Mexican food. Jicama is best characterized as sweet, crunchy vegetable that can be compared easily enough with sweet potato. It is often referred to as Mexican yam or Yam Bean and can be used in salads as well as stews. If this is your first time to hear about it, let us say that the bark that covers the yam shouldn’t put you off. Once you have peeled it, you will love the sweet taste and crunchy texture of the vegetable. And most of all, there are several benefits linked to it too. Here are a few that you should take note of.

Improves digestion

One of the benefits linked to eating jicama is that it is actually good for your digestion. This is because this vegetable can help deliver more fiber into your system which is important for good digestion. We all know that we need to have fiber to promote digestion but most of us fail to reach the required amount. With that being said, adding jicama to your diet can help fill your belly up while adding bulk to your stools so you won’t have to experience constipation.

Regulates blood pressure

Jicama is one of the best sources of potassium which is beneficial to regulating your blood pressure. It acts as a vasodilator where it minimizes tension present in the arteries as well as blood vessels. This, in turn, helps protect your cardiovascular system. Since potassium is increased during consumption of jicama, it aids in balancing the amount of sodium in your body too so that it will remain well hydrated and functioning.

Enhances immune system

Another reason why you should eat jicama is that it is packed with vitamin C which can help deliver about 40% of the recommended dosage. Vitamin C is crucial to your immune system as it is known for protecting your body against viruses, bacteria, as well as fungus and other possible pathogens. This vitamin is considered as a natural antioxidant which can reduce damages caused by free radicals.

Boosts brain function

It appears that eating Jicama can also help improve your brain and cognitive function too. This is because it contains vitamin B6 which is known to break down proteins so they can be transformed into amino acids.

Improves circulation

Another reason for you to eat jicama is that it can actually help improve your blood circulation because of copper and iron. This root crop helps build more blood cells to combat anemia.

Aids in weight loss

If you are looking for a way to reduce weight, eating this low-calorie food is highly recommended. This is because jicama contains fiber as well as a variety of nutrients that can actually help your stomach feel full for hours.