Jicama Health Benefits and Nutrition Facts

Pronounced ‘hee-kah-mah,’ jicama, also known as the Mexican potato, is the starchy root of the Pachyrhizus Erosus vine. This plant thrives in hot climates, but only the root can be eaten (the rest of the plant is toxic.) 

This bulbous root is known to have a crunchy nutty flavor. One of the most common comparisons is that it’s somewhere between a pear and a potato. 

It’s a root that has been getting more and more popular in the west because of its incredible benefits. We’re not kidding. This root is seriously packed with mother nature’s goodness. Keep on reading for jicama nutrition facts and health benefits. 

Trust us, you are going to want to try it. 

Jicama Nutrition Facts 

Here are some of the top jicama nutrition facts. We weren’t kidding when we said it’s a superfood….

• Low In Calories - Jicama is only 35 calories per 100g. And even though it’s got no fat content, it is nutritionally dense and full of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.

• High In Fiber - One cup of this root and you get up to 7 grams of fiber (that’s roughly 25 percent of your daily recommended intake.) 

• High In Vitamin C - Just one small cup of jicama provides your body with 40 percent of your daily recommended dose of vitamin C. Yep, it’s that good! 

Health Benefits of Jicama

Good for Digestion - We all know fiber is crucial for our digestive systems. It’s what allows the nutrients in our food to move around our body, making sure the good stuff gets where it’s needed. Jicama is packed full of not just fiber, but a special fiber called inulin. Studies show how crucial this is for digestion and gut health. 

Good for Diabetics - Another of the benefits of jicama is that studies show it can reduce blood sugar levels. Because it’s low glycemic, it won’t spike blood sugar levels, making it perfect for anyone trying to watch the amount of sugar they eat. 

Vitamin C - Another benefit of jicama is that it’s packed full of Vitamin C. We all know how important this vitamin is, from boosting your immune system to preventing oxidative damage to your cells. 

Improves Brain Function - Jicama is packed full of vitamin B6. Studies show that this vitamin protects brain health and promotes mental wellbeing. 

Promotes Weight Loss - Jicama is a low glycemic food, which in non-sciency terms means it keeps you feeling fuller for longer. Perfect for anyone watching their figure. 

Prevents Anemia - Jicama is rich in iron. As you may have heard, iron is crucial in creating red blood cells and supporting cell growth. By making your diet rich in iron, you can prevent anemia, which is linked to weakness and exhaustion. 

Strengthens Bones  - Another of the benefits of jicama is that it’s full of inulin which is a probiotic. Studies show that this helps your bones by aiding calcium absorption.

Protects the Heart - As you can see the benefits of jicama are wide-reaching, but let's get to the heart of the matter (pun intended.) Jicama can also aid against cardiovascular diseases, lower inflammation and blood pressure, and reduce the risk of blood clots.

To Sum Up 

Hopefully, you can now see the superpowers that this root contains. It’s packed full of nutrients, vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. With these jicama juice facts now at your disposal, you can see the potential this root has in becoming part of your diet. 

Here at Little West, we've harnessed its potential in one of our favorite cold-pressed juices. This method ensures your body can swiftly absorb and digest the natural goodness it holds. And if the numerous health benefits haven't convinced you to give it a try, there's one more compelling reason to explore jicama – it tastes amazing! Whether you're on a juice cleanse or considering a juice subscription, let jicama juice enhance your wellness journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best way to eat Jicama?

There are so many options when eating this root. The traditional way in Mexico is to actually eat it raw, with salt and lemon juice. You can also make a slaw out of it and add it to a salad. Another very common way is to cook it. You can fry it in strips, or even boil it and mash it like a potato.