Nutrition & Health Facts about Callaloo - a Caribbean Super Food

Superfoods have now been gaining popularity since the threat of deadly diseases has made itself known to man once more. People are now trying to look for healthy ways and healthy food options to prevent the disease before it starts. One of these is the Carribean super food, Callaloo. The name may sound funny, but you’ll smile even more when you find out how great this food is.

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Callaloo Greens

What is Callaloo?

Callaloo is an edible green leafy plant that is native to Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago and Haiti. It is used as a main ingredient in some spicy Carribean stews. It has been called different names depending on the region. In the Carribean, it is called “Malanga” while in other parts of the world, it may be called Chinese spinach, calalu or taro root.

Origin of Callaloo superfood

Callaloo is thought to have originated from Africa. It was widely used by African slaves to create a spicy stew made from its leaves and has been named Callaloo too. So Callaloo may either refer to the spicy Carribean stew or the leaves used to make the stew.

Nutrients in Callaloo herb

Ø  Callaloo is rich in Vitamin K, which helps with blood clotting.

Ø  It is also abundant in Vitamin C which boosts the immune system keeping diseases at bay.

Ø  It has Vitamin A to promote good eyesight and is a great antioxidant too.

Ø  It contains manganese, which promotes healthy skin, hair and bones.

Ø  Because of its magnesium content, it improves blood circulation and helps regulate sugar levels. It is also important for prevention of muscle spasms.

Ø  It is very rich in potassium which is an important electrolyte in the regulation of blood pressure and nerve and muscle communication. It plays an important role in the functioning of the kidneys, heart and other organs.

Health benefits of Callaloo

1.       Callaloo is a great source of protein like phenylalaline, methionine, lysine, cysteine, tryptophan, histidine and other amino acids. These are great in building, repairing and strengthening of the muscles. Often people drink Caribbean Callaloo Soup to stay healthy.

2.       It is also rich in dietary fiber for better bowel movement and prevent constipation.

3.       Callaloo is very rich in antioxidants that fights off free-radicals that causes harm to the body. It also helps strengthen the immune system and helps fight off infections and other diseases.

4.       It is very low in caloric content, so consumption of this may lead to weight loss.

5.       Rich in potassium, sodium and calcium for the normal functioning of the muscles and other organs in the body.

6.       It can prevent anemia, for it is rich in iron too.

Jamaican Callaloo

The callaloo is one of the best Superfoods out there that is worth a try. What could be more nutritious than a leaf who has vitamins and minerals, protein and fiber, all necessary for optimum health. You can try it out different ways and it will taste just as great. If you are not a big fan, just think of all the benefits you can get to a healthier you.

Source: http://www.edtreatmentindia.com/