Health Benefits of Arrowroot and its Nutritional Facts

Arrowroot: A Nutrient-Rich Superfood with Health Benefits

Arrowroot, traditionally called Maranta Arundinacea, is a versatile vegetable valued for its culinary and therapeutic benefits. It is a starchy vegetable mostly processed into arrowroot powder.

One of arrowroot’s standout qualities is its high folate (vitamin B9) content, which makes it an essential nutrient for pregnant women. Moreover, it is rich in iron, phosphorus, and potassium, which are vital for maintaining overall health.

Another significant advantage of arrowroot is its exceptional digestibility, which makes it ideal for children and elderly people. It is also an excellent alternative to cornstarch when baking bread, pasta, etc. 

With its soft texture, nutrient density, and impressive versatility, arrowroot is more than just a kitchen staple. To know more about the benefits of arrowroot powder, continue reading this blog for more details!

What is Arrowroot?

Arrowroot is a starchy substance that is basically derived from certain tropical plants. The cultivation of arrowroot began nearly 7,000 years ago, and now it has various purposes in medicinal, cosmetic, and various other industries. It is a great gluten-free option used in baking and cooking. 

It provides calcium and magnesium and can be quite beneficial for digestive issues, elderly people, and children. 

Arrowroot Nutrition & Facts

Arrowroot is an excellent source of carbohydrates, proteins, and other essential components, providing several medical and therapeutic effects. It is low in calories, containing approximately 65 calories per 100 grams, and serves as a good carbohydrate source, making it an excellent energy booster. 

Arrowroot nutrition is as follows:

Top 10 Healthy Arrowroot Benefits 

Arrowroot is a plant rich in nutrients and recognized for its numerous applications and health benefits. Here are 10 healthy arrowroot benefits:

1.Helps in Weight Loss

Arrowroot powder, with 32% resistant starch, provides a sustained sense of fullness when mixed with water and works as soluble fiber in the stomach. Its protein content also helps control appetite, which potentially leads to weight loss. 

2.Gluten-Free

Wheat flour and other grains contain gluten, which can cause allergic reactions. Therefore, gluten-free arrowroot powder is beneficial for people with gluten allergies or those with a gluten-free diet. 

3.Improves Cognitive Skills

Arrowroot is an excellent vegetable for kids as it enhances cognitive skills. It improves psychological abilities and promotes mental growth. Moreover, it is high in zinc, potassium, and iron, all enhancing brain health and development. 

4.Rich in Vitamin B 

Arrowroot has high levels of vitamin B, specifically riboflavin and niacin. Niacin lowers cholesterol, relieves arthritis pain, and reduces inflammation. Furthermore, it can lower the risk of cardiovascular disease as well.

5.Beneficial for the Heart

Arrowroot is high in potassium, which is extremely good for the heart and reduces blood pressure and stroke risk. Studies have also shown that potassium also helps promote healthy oxygen flow to the brain, improving brain activity.

6.Good for Newborns

Arrowroot helps in the absorption of several key nutrients and supports healthy growth and development in newborns. It is even a good substitute for breast milk. In addition, arrowroot powder for babies’ loose motion is quite helpful and also helps reduce bronchitis and cough.

7.Improves Blood Circulation

Arrowroot contains high levels of B-complex, iron, and copper. According to research, these elements are needed for the formation of red blood cells, and these nutrients are required for adequate blood flow to and from numerous critical organs. 

8.Lowers Cholesterol

Taking arrowroot can help reduce blood cholesterol levels as it also promotes bile production in the liver, which in turn decreases the levels of cholesterol in the blood.

9.Promotes Kidney Health

Arrowroot contains potassium, which has been shown to help the kidneys eliminate toxins and other stress-causing chemicals and substances. It may also help to enhance urinary tract health and kidney function. 

10. Makes Skin Healthy

Arrowroot contains several skin-healing benefits due to its antioxidants, proteins, and vitamins. Arrowroot powder uses for skin include getting rid of blemishes, acne scars, and dark spots. It also helps to eliminate dead skin cells & makes the skin look healthy.

What are the Uses of Arrowroot?

Arrowroot is mostly used in powder form as a thickening agent in cooking and baking and is a replacement for wheat flour in gluten-free recipes. 

Arrowroot plant uses different uses are as follows:

• It is used as an ingredient in baking and sweets. You may add it to fruit pies, custards, and puddings to give them a glossy shine.
• Arrowroot powder uses in cooking includes brushing up tofu, meat, or other proteins before cooking to get a crispy taste.
• Its oil-absorbing properties make it great for skin to minimize clogged pores and soothe inflammation.
• Arrowroot powder can also make acidic sauces, such as cranberry sauce or even homemade ice cream.
• Additional cosmetic uses include making a face mask, dry shampoo, talcum powder, etc.
   

Potential Side Effects of Arrowroot 

Arrowroot allergies have side effects similar to those of other types of food allergies. They can range from moderate to severe, depending on how sensitive the individual is to the allergy. These responses can occur immediately or within a few hours of digesting arrowroot-containing foods.

●  Mild Side Effects

Arrowroot allergies can cause mild side effects such as itching and swelling of the mouth, cheeks, lips, or tongue also hives and stomach discomfort. These symptoms, while unpleasant, are usually not life-threatening. However, get in touch with a doctor if you notice any such symptoms. 

●  Severe Side Effects

Severe side effects are not that common. However, it can be life-threatening.  These include difficulties in breathing, low blood pressure, dizziness, and loss of consciousness. Moreover, dangerous reactions, such as Anaphylaxis, require immediate medical attention.

Arrowroot is a rich nutrient plant that offers a wide range of health benefits, including many other than culinary ones. Its high content of essential vitamins, minerals, and resistant starch makes it an excellent addition to any diet, particularly for those seeking gluten-free alternatives or natural remedies for common health concerns. 
From helping in weight loss and improving cognitive function to promoting heart health and skin rejuvenation, arrowroot proves to be a powerhouse of nutrition and functionality.