This root/tuber variety is an ideal bread substitute, and you probably haven’t heard of it: Cassava.

machiel
22 May 2023

Have you ever heard of cassava? It's a root vegetable primarily cultivated in tropical regions such as Africa, Asia, and South America. But what makes this root so unique? Let's take a closer look!

First and foremost, cassava has a long history. The root has been cultivated for over 4,000 years in South America, also known as Yuca, and later spread to other parts of the world. Nowadays, cassava is an important food crop in many countries and is used for various purposes.

The cassava root is elongated in shape and has rough, waxed skin, so be aware that it can be sticky! The inside is white and rich in starch, with a nutty flavor. It can be prepared in many ways, including baking, boiling, frying, mashing, and roasting. It can even be used as a base for flour.

In this blog, we will explore six benefits of consuming cassava and why it can be a healthy and tasty addition to the AIP diet:

  • Rich in nutrients

 Cassava is rich in nutrients such as carbohydrates, fiber, vitamin C, thiamine, and folate. All of these nutrients play a vital role in maintaining a healthy body. Consuming cassava can help prevent nutrient deficiencies and keep your body healthy.

  • Improves digestion

Cassava is also a good source of fiber, which is essential for digestion. Fiber helps keep the intestines healthy and promotes regular bowel movements. A fiber-rich diet can also reduce the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and obesity.

  • Gluten-free (ideal for AIP)

Cassava is gluten-free, making it an excellent choice for individuals with gluten intolerance or celiac disease. It perfectly substitutes wheat, barley, and rye in bread, pastries, and pasta dishes. (Check out a delicious cassava bread recipe on our website.)

  • Helps with weight loss

Cassava contains fewer calories than many other carbohydrate-rich foods like rice and potatoes. This suits those looking to lose or maintain their current weight. Additionally, the fiber content in cassava can help promote a feeling of fullness, reducing hunger cravings.

  • Regulates blood sugar levels

Cassava contains complex carbohydrates that are slowly broken down in the body. This gradual process results in a steady rise and fall in blood sugar levels, which benefits individuals with diabetes or those aiming to regulate their blood sugar. Moreover, cassava contains resistant starch, which can help reduce insulin resistance and protect the pancreas.

  • Boosts the immune system

 Cassava is rich in vitamin C, crucial for a healthy immune system. Vitamin C aids in the production of white blood cells that fight infections and protect the body against pathogens. Consuming cassava can help strengthen immunity and keep the body healthy.

Of course, consuming cassava as a carbohydrate substitute is essential in moderation. But within the AIP diet, we welcome this root vegetable cultivated 4,000 years ago in South America. Our ancestors knew precisely what they were doing—relying on unprocessed products to improve body and mind.

Let food be the medicine it once was, and start with AIP.

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