What is Lotus Root?
The lotus roots are the root of the lotus flower, which is an aquatic plant of the Nelumbonaceae family. The lotus flower has been a powerful element of numerous Asian countries for thousands of years and represents purity, innocence, and divine beauty. It is an important element in numerous cultural practices and religions. However, it is also a stunningly beautiful flower that embeds its roots in the bottom of the lake, stream, river, etc. while the pad and the emerging flower float on top of the water. They are aquatic perennials, and their seeds can germinate long after falling dormant. A seed more than 1,300 years old was once brought “back from the dead” and flowered in a laboratory.
The lotus root (or rhizome) is a long, woody object that attaches to the bottom of the pad and can stretch up to 4 feet, and can be washed, sliced, and prepared, eaten raw or cooked. It is frequently used as a vegetable in Asian cuisines within soups, or deep-fried, stir-fried, braised, and other interesting ways of cooking this healthy food. It is also used in its natural or powdered form in traditional herbal medicine.
Lotus roots have a wide range of health benefits owing to its rich nutritional composition, which includes its ability to improve digestion, reduce cholesterol, lower blood pressure, boost the immune system, prevent various forms of cancer, balance mood and relieve depression, increase the blood circulation, and maintain proper enzymatic activity in the body.
Nutritional Facts
The health benefits of lotus root can be attributed to its unique mix of vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients, including potassium, phosphorous, copper, iron, and manganese, as well as thiamine, pantothenic acid, zinc, vitamin B6, vitamin C. It is also a very significant source of dietary fiber and a decent source of protein.
Improves Blood Circulation
Lotus roots can be a wonderful way to stimulate the circulation of blood to increase oxygenation of the organs and increase the functionality and energy levels. The iron and copper content in lotus roots are very significant, and they are both integral parts of red blood cell production, reducing the chances of developing anemic symptoms and increasing vitality and blood flow.
Reduces Stress
One of the elements of vitamin B complex is pyridoxine. It directly interacts with neural receptors in the brain that influence mood and mental states. It controls irritability, headaches, and stress levels. Lotus flowers are often connected with peace and tranquility, but it is the lotus root which delivers the peace people are looking for!
Regulates Blood Pressure
The significant levels of potassium found in lotus root ensures a proper balance between the fluids in the body and also counteracts the effects of sodium in our bloodstream. Potassium is a vasodilator, meaning that it relaxes blood vessels and, by lessening the contraction and rigidity, it increases blood flow and reduces the strain on the cardiovascular system. Potassium is also an essential component of neural activity and the passage of fluid and blood in the brain.
Improves Digestion
The woody, fleshy lotus root is packed with dietary fiber, which is known to bulk up the stool and expedite bowel movements. Lotus root can reduce symptoms of constipation while optimizing nutrient absorption through the secretion of digestive and gastric juices and stimulating peristaltic motion in the smooth intestinal muscles to facilitate easy and regular bowel movements.
Rich in Vitamin C Content
When we talk about the nutrient content of lotus root, vitamin C is certainly the most prominent. 100 grams of lotus root contains 73% of your daily requirement with this vitamin, which also happens to be a powerful antioxidant. Vitamin C is an important component of collagen, which maintains the integrity and strength of our blood vessels, organs, and skin, and is also a major stimulant for the immune system. Furthermore, vitamin C can neutralize free radicals in the body, which are dangerous byproducts of cellular metabolism connected to causing conditions like cancer and heart disease.
Improves Heart Health
Along with the vessel dilating potential of potassium and the cholesterol-scrubbing ability of dietary fiber, the pyridoxine content in lotus root controls the levels of homocysteine in the blood, which is directly connected to causing heart attacks.
Manages Weight
Lotus roots are a good option for people trying to managetheir weight. By including low- calorie foods that are high in nutrients and fiber, you are able to get all the nutrients you need, and still feel full, so you can reduce the chances of overeating and manage obesity.
AVAILABLE NOW:
You can find organic lotus roots and lotus root powder in our grocery offerings.
Article courtesy of Woods Macrobiotics
