Tapioca is a starch extracted from the storage roots of the cassava plant. It provides only carbohydrate food value. Usually, tapioca is a starch sold as pearls, flour, or flakes. That is low in nutritional value such as protein, vitamins, and minerals. But people can use it as a gluten-free wheat alternative.
Nutritional Values of Tapioca
One serving of dried tapioca 152 g pearls contains the following nutritional values:
- Calories: 544
- Carbohydrates: 135g
- Protein: 0 g
- Fat: 0 g
What is Tapioca used for?
Tapioca is used for many things. As it is a grain- and gluten-free product that has many uses
- Thickener: Tapioca can be a thickener for soups, sauces, and gravies. It has a neutral flavor, is cheap, and even an excellent thickening power.
- Gluten- and grain-free bread: It can be used in bread recipes. Tapioca can be combined with other flour.
- Puddings and desserts: Tapioca pearls are used to make desserts, bubble tea, or puddings.
- Binding agent: Tapioca is added to burgers, nuggets, and dough to improve texture and moisture content.
Health benefits of tapioca
1. Gluten-free
Gluten is a protein naturally found in some grains including wheat, barley, and rye. A gluten-free diet benefits people with irritable bowel syndrome. Tapioca is a gluten-free alternative to use in cooking and baking. According to research a gluten-free diet also reduces the chances of heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.
2. Supports a healthy weight gain
Tapioca is a simple way to gain weight. Because of the high carbohydrate content, it can be an easy way to increase your daily calories. It is also cholesterol-free. Moreover, sucrose forms the bulk of the sugars in cassava roots. While tapioca should not be consumed in large quantities.
3. Helps in boosting blood circulation
Tapioca contains a small amount of iron and copper. While these minerals are important for blood health. With proper and good circulation and adequate oxygen, all these minerals fight diseases like anemia.