Cassava Root Powder
Cassava is popular food for those following a paleo diet or those who are not able to eat gluten. Being gluten, grain and nut free are why many eat cassava. It is also vegetarian food that vegans can include in their diet.
What is Cassava Root?
The Cassava is a perennial shrub native to South America. Its roots are long and brown and encase the white colored inside which is the edible part. It is quite rich in starch and also contains vitamin C, phosphorus, and calcium. Cassava is often referred to as yuca or manioc.
How to Use Cassava
Cassava has been said to be used to treat dehydration caused by diarrhea. It is typically only used for mild cases since it does not contain a large amount of electrolytes which are needed for more severe cases.
Cassava flour is made from this root. It is used as a substitute for white and other types of flours. The big reason people use is it is because it is gluten, nut, and grain free. It is also vegetarian and vegan and utilized by those following a paleo diet. It is often substitute on a one to one basis for wheat flour products.
Other uses of cassava include treatment for:
- Sepsis
- Tiredness
- Inducing labor (please consult your physician if you are intended to use it for this purpose)
Cassava Health Benefit
Benefits of Cassava Powder
By using a powder, you don’t have to worry about thoroughly cooking it to remove the chemical inherent to cassava root. Cassava powder provides the super food in a safe, consumable and easy to use format.
- Cassava powder is gluten free and vegan
- The high fiber content can help maintain healthy cholesterol
- Decrease inflammation
- Provides relief from arthritis and rheumatism
- Help those suffering from IBS (irritable bowel syndrome)
Nutrients:
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin B6
- Vitamin B5
- Vitamin B2
- Potassium
- Iron
- Magnesium
- Calcium
- Thiamin
- Zinc
Where to Buy Cassava Powder
Cassava root powder is sold online from a recommended provider. It’s gluten-free, organic and vegan and available in three different sizes.
Cassava Side Effects
Cassava is typically safe when taken on occasion and cooked thoroughly. If you are using commercially available cassava powder, it is prepared safely already.
However, if you are using raw cassava root and it is not made properly or eaten raw, you could ingest the chemical cyanogenic glycosides which get converted to cyanide in your body. Cyanide is very dangerous and can lead to paralysis. Given this fact, pregnant or nursing mothers shouldn’t use it since chemicals could be transferred to the baby.
Notes on Iodine Deficiency and Thyroid disease
Cassava can adversely affect absorption into the body so those who already have low iodine can have a negative impact their condition. Additionally, it could decrease thyroid hormone levels so it may not be a good option for those with thyroid disease as it can make the condition worse.
Cassava FAQ
What is cassava flour?
Cassava flour is made from cassava root which has had the brown outer skin peeled off. The inner portion is dried, then ground. The flour is gluten free and a popular choice for those on strict diets where gluten is not allowed. It tends to be more powdery in texture similar to white flour rather than grainer like other gluten-free flour products.
How to make cassava flour?
Peel the root and grate it. Remove as much moisture as possible using cheesecloth. Spread it out to dry. Once dried, mash it into powder / flour.
How to cook cassava?
Peel the cassava root and cut into chunks. Place in boiling water. Once the cassava pieces are soft, they are done.
Is cassava flour and tapioca flour the same?
No, they are not. Tapioca flour is only the extracted starch which remains after pulping the cassava. Once the water has evaporated, what is left is the tapioca flour. Cassava flour if made from the entire cassava root, minus the brown outer skin.
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