Health Benefits of Lotus Root

We all know how the lotus flower plays an important part in culture and religion. Did you know that below each and every beautiful bloom is a root that can be consumed as a vegetable? This article will get you acquainted with lotus root and the many health benefits it’s known to bring.

The lotus flower is very common in Southern and Eastern parts of Asia, and that’s why it is in those places where lotus root is a staple in the diet. Possessing a taste that is similar to that of coconut meat and texture just like a potato, there are various ways of preparing lotus root. It is often sliced and then sautéed or stir fried with other vegetables.

It’s also commonly pickled, turning its flavor into something tangy with a little sweetness. Once pickled, lotus root turns into a very popular snack. It is also something that is usually added to soups and stews, especially those containing shrimps. Pickled lotus root can be used as a salad topping, too.

What makes lotus root, pickled or otherwise, an excellent addition to one’s diet is the fact that it is actually a nutritious vegetable. Experts say that it contains phosphorus, copper, potassium, iron, manganese and vitamins A and C. Lotus root also supplies the body with good amounts of B vitamins.

Curious as to what benefits you can get from consuming lotus root? Here are some of the best ones:

Reduced Stress

B vitamins present abundantly in lotus root is known to help in lowering a person’s stress levels. They also provide the body with energy, which can be easily depleted when stressed. If you are leading a very busy and toxic life, then consider adding lotus root and other B vitamin-rich foods to the diet to combat stress and fatigue.

Lowered Blood Pressure

One of the many nutrients found in every serving of lotus root is potassium, and this is why its consumption can help in keeping high blood pressure or hypertension at bay. So just in case you are already sick and tired of eating bananas, which are well-known sources of potassium, then simply get your hands on lotus root for a change.

Increased Immunity

There are also loads of vitamin C in lotus root, and this is why this vegetable is perfect whenever the cold or flu season is nearing. We all know how the immune system can be strengthened by vitamin C, and that is why the regular consumption of lotus root can help in lowering one’s risk of having an infection.

Boosted Eye Health and Vision

Another vitamin present in every lotus root serving is vitamin A, which is known to help keep the eyes in a healthy state. In other words, the regular intake of vitamin A-rich foods such as lotus root can help in warding off eye diseases like cataracts and macular degeneration, both of which can rob you of your 20/20 vision.

Regulated Bowel Movement

Lotus root is also a wonderful source of fiber, and everybody knows how important fiber is in warding off constipation. If you are trying to lose weight, it’s a good idea for you to add some lotus root to your diet on a regular basis because its fiber content makes it feel heavy on the stomach, thus keeping those hunger pangs at bay.

Maintained Muscles

There’s a decent amount of protein in lotus root, and this is why you should consume it regularly if you want to build and maintain muscles. Most especially if you are a vegetarian who cannot obtain protein from animal products, then the addition of lotus root to your regular diet can prove to be very beneficial.

Don’t forget to get this article reposted on your different social media sites to let your family and friends who are on the hunt for healthy foods know about lotus root and the health benefits it’s known to offer!

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