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 nutritional profile and fiber content. We’re not kidding. This root contains fiber, vitamin C, and other plant nutrients. Keep on reading for jicama nutrition facts and health benefits.
Trust us, you are going to want to try it.
Here are some of the top jicama nutrition facts. We weren’t kidding when we said it’s a superfood….
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. To better understand how ingredients commonly used in cold-pressed juices contribute to digestion, hydration, and gut balance, check out our cold-pressed juicing and wellness guide.
Good for Diabetics - Because jicama is low on the glycemic index, it may be a lower-impact carbohydrate option for people monitoring sugar intake.
Vitamin C - Another benefit of jicama is that it’s packed full of Vitamin C. We all know how important this vitamin is, Vitamin C supports normal immune function and acts as an antioxidant.
Improves Brain Function - Jicama is packed full of vitamin B6. Studies show that Vitamin B6 plays a role in normal brain and nerve function.
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, that supports the body’s production of red blood cells.
Strengthens Bones - Another of the benefits of jicama is that it’s full of inulin which is a probiotic. Inulin has been studied for its potential role in supporting mineral 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.) The fiber and antioxidants in jicama are associated with nutrients commonly linked to heart-healthy diets.
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 offers a refreshing way to enjoy the flavor and nutrients of jicama. 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.
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.
**Disclaimer - This article is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice.**
