How You can Improve your Health with Cocoyam.

How You can Improve your Health with Cocoyam. 

Cocoyam, also known as colocasia esculenta, is a perenial, tropical crop, which belongs to the family of Araceae with species such as Xanthosoma, taro, elephant's ear, and others. It is a starchy tuber crop with three parts- corm, stem and leaves, which is grown basically for its edible root. Although all its part can be eaten, it is grown as an ornamental plant (for beautifying environment) as well as for medicinal purposes.
Originating from India or Southeast Asia as some researchers have found out, cocoyam is a known staple crop in most developing countries of Africa. It can also be found in some developed countries like US, Japan, Singapore and India. This delicacy can be boiled, roasted, made into chips by frying or cooked as porridge. It can also be pounded and used as thickener for some local soups. Cocoyam leaves are very rich in protein and can be used as vegetables.

Aside from enjoying its various forms of delicacies, cocoyam, nutritionally, is a boundless source of dietary fiber. It is an excellent source of carbohydrate (an energy giving food) and protein (body building food). It also contains thiamine, copper, calcium, niacin, manganese, vitamin B6, vitamin C, vitamin E and A. It equally contains riboflavin, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, zinc and potassium.
Cocoyam is also vital for maintaining a healthy immune system. For instance, dietary fiber aids a healthier digestive process. It protects the skin, prevents heart disease, lowers blood sugar levels and prevents lungs and oral cancer. It boosts vision, increase blood circulation, supports the musclesand nerves, helps relieve stress and decreases blood pressure. However, cocoyam is very high in calories and can cause obesity when consumed excessively. Research has shown that it is toxic in raw form due to high content of oxalates. So it must be cooked properly before consumption. An advise from DCLM.