Top 10 Arrowroot Powder Benefits You Should Know About!

Are you curious about the hidden gem in your kitchen that can revolutionize your health? Yes! It is about arrowroot powder benefits!

This natural and multipurpose ingredient has been used for centuries in various cuisines and traditional medicine. 

But did you know that arrowroot powder offers a treasure trove of health benefits beyond its culinary uses?  Interestingly, a study published in the Pharmacognosy Journal highlights arrowroot’s anti-inflammatory properties, suggesting its potential in natural remedies.

From aiding digestion to boosting immunity, this unassuming powder packs a powerful punch. Let’s explore the wonders of arrowroot powder and unlock its potential for your well-being.

What Is Arrowroot?

A starchy, white powder known as arrowroot is produced from the rootstocks (rhizomes) of various tropical plants, especially Maranta arundinacea. This versatile plant has been used for centuries in various cuisines and traditional medicine due to its numerous benefits.

Arrowroot powder is a popular ingredient in cooking and baking, serving as a natural thickener for sauces, soups, and desserts. It has a neutral taste and works well in gluten-free diet plan and paleo recipes as a substitute for cornstarch or wheat flour.

Its smooth texture and ability to withstand high temperatures make it an excellent choice for thickening hot liquids.

Besides its culinary uses, arrowroot is known for its medicinal properties. It is often used as a remedy for digestive issues like diarrhea and upset stomach, as it is gentle on the stomach and easily digestible. Additionally, arrowroot powder is valued in skincare and cosmetics for its ability to soothe skin irritation and absorb excess oil.

Nutritional Value Of Arrowroot

Arrowroot is a starchy root vegetable that is processed into a fine white powder, often used as a thickening agent in cooking and baking. While it is low in calories and fat, arrowroot does offer some essential nutrients.

Here is the approximate nutritional value of arrowroot per 100 grams:

• Calories: 357 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 88 grams
• Dietary Fiber: 3.4 grams
• Sugars: 0.2 grams
• Protein: 0.3 grams
• Fat: 0.1 grams
• Saturated Fat: 0 grams
• Trans Fat: 0 grams
• Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
• Sodium: 26 milligrams
• Potassium: 454 milligrams
• Calcium: 6 milligrams
• Iron: 2.2 milligrams
• Magnesium: 33 milligrams
• Phosphorus: 6 milligrams
• Vitamin C: 2.6 milligrams
• Vitamin B6: 0.1 milligrams
• Folate: 338 micrograms

10 Benefits Of Arrowroot Powder You Didn’t Know

Arrowroot powder offers a plethora of health benefits that might surprise you. While people commonly use it as a thickening agent in cooking, they have recognized its medicinal properties for centuries. Here are ten arrowroot powder health benefits you might not be aware of:

• Digestive Aid: Arrowroot is gentle on the stomach and aids in digestion, making it suitable for those with sensitive digestive systems or recovering from illness.

• Gluten-Free Alternative: Research says that as arrowroot is gluten-free, it serves as an excellent thickening option for individuals with gluten intolerances or Celiac disease.

• Blood Sugar Regulation: Arrowroot contains resistant starch, which can help stabilize blood sugar levels and support diabetes management.

• Nutrient Absorption: The high potassium content in arrowroot promotes nutrient absorption in the body, aiding overall health. According to the National Institutes Of Health, adding arrowroot to our diet contributes to our health by reducing the risk of chronic disease or boosting natural immune protection. 

• Soothes Irritated Skin: When applied topically, arrowroot powder can calm and soothe irritated skin conditions like rashes and insect bites.

• Natural Deodorant: Arrowroot powder, when used in homemade deodorants, can absorb moisture and odors, keeping you fresh throughout the day.

• Gluten-Free Baking: Arrowroot is an excellent substitute for wheat flour in gluten-free baking, adding lightness to baked goods.

• Diarrhea Relief: Its binding properties can help alleviate diarrhea symptoms and promote firmer stools.

• Skin Nourishment: Arrowroot powder is a natural skincare gem that soothes irritation, reduces redness, and absorbs excess oil, leaving your skin calm and fresh. Its silky texture makes it a great face powder alternative, promoting smoother skin. Additionally, it helps treat rashes and blemishes and absorbs sweat, making it perfect for maintaining healthy, glowing skin even in humid climates.

• Aids Weight Management: As a low-calorie and fat-free thickener, arrowroot can be a beneficial addition to a diet plan for weight management.

Arrowroot Powder Uses For Weight Loss

Arrowroot powder can be a valuable addition to your weight loss journey due to its various properties that promote a healthy diet and lifestyle. While it is not a miracle solution for shedding pounds, incorporating arrowroot powder into your diet can complement your weight loss efforts and support overall well-being. Here are some ways arrowroot powder can be used for weight loss:

• Low-Calorie Thickener: Arrowroot powder is a low-calorie thickening agent, making it a suitable replacement for higher-calorie thickeners like cornstarch or flour in recipes. Using arrowroot in soups, stews, and sauces can help reduce overall calorie intake.

• Gluten-Free Alternative: As a gluten-free option, arrowroot powder is ideal for individuals with gluten intolerance or those seeking to reduce gluten consumption. You can use it as a replacement for wheat-based thickeners in various dishes.

• Improved Digestion: Arrowroot powder is gentle on the digestive system and can aid in digestion. A healthy digestive system is crucial for efficient nutrient absorption and overall well-being, which can contribute to weight management.

• Blood Sugar Regulation: The resistant starch in arrowroot powder can help stabilize blood sugar levels, preventing sudden spikes and crashes that may lead to unhealthy food cravings and overeating.

• Promotes Satiety: Arrowroot contains dietary fiber, which adds bulk to meals and promotes a feeling of fullness. Consuming fiber-rich foods can help control hunger and prevent excessive snacking.

• Homemade Energy Bars: In fact, arrowroot powder can be used to bind and thicken homemade energy bars, providing a satisfying and nutritious snack option.

• Natural Thickeners for Smoothies: Adding a small amount of arrowroot powder to smoothies can give them a thicker and creamier consistency without resorting to high-calorie ingredients.

• Baking Substitute: Arrowroot powder can also replace traditional thickeners and flours in gluten-free baking recipes, allowing you to enjoy baked goods without excess calories and gluten.

Culinary Uses Of Arrowroot Powder

Arrowroot powder has several uses in cooking, including:

• Thickener: Commonly used for soup, sauces, gravy, pudding, and custard as a gluten-free thickener, arrowroot thickens at lower cooking temperatures than cornstarch. It also remains stable under freezing conditions.
  
• Baking: Baking with arrowroot is virtually gluten-free and improves the texture of cakes, cookies, and bread without having to add any other binding materials. The final product will be light and soft.
  
• Fried Coating: It can be either dusted on meats, seafood, and vegetables or coated in the mixture before frying to create crispy textures in food.
  
• Baby Foods: Arrowroot powder is considered mild for the digestion system and serves well in the preparation of baby foods like porridge or as a thickener in homemade puree.
  
• Non-dairy Yogurt and Ice Cream: This is a texturizer and stabilizer of non-dairy ice creams and yogurts.
  
• Smoothing Agent for Smoothies: Arrowroot is the ingredient that will turn the smoothie silky recipe into reality without introducing any different flavors.
  
• Gluten-Free Flour Mix: Arrowroot powder is usually included in gluten-free flour mixtures, which may produce more easily formed, stretchier dough.

How To Use Arrowroot Powder In Daily Life?

There are some easy ways to incorporate arrowroot powder into your everyday life:

1. In Cooking and Baking:

• Use as a thickener: Add it to the soup, sauces, and gravies. First, it should be mixed with cold water into one tablespoon of arrowroot powder and two tablespoons of the added medium before bringing it into the hot one.
• Gluten-Free Baking: You can add it into gluten-free flour mixes for cakes, cookies, and bread formulations.

2. In Smoothies:

• Mix in a small amount (1/2 to 1 teaspoon) of arrowroot powder among smoothies for a creamy texture without changing flavor.

3. As A Natural Skin Care Ingredient:

• Face Masks: Mix it with other ingredients such as honey or yogurt to create a home remedy face mask for a smoother skin texture.
• Dry Shampoo: Shake on the scalp and hair to absorb excess oil and rejuvenate the strands. 

4. For Digestive Health:

• Arrowroot Porridge: If you are facing stomach troubles, boil arrowroot powder in water or milk for a sweet and easy-to-digest meal for sensitive stomachs.

5. Homemade Ice Cream or Yogurt:

• Use arrowroot powder to stabilize dairy-free ice cream or homemade yogurt, improving texture and consistency.

6. Natural Baby Food:

• Arrowroot powder can be used to prepare gentle, easy-to-digest porridge for babies.

7. For Frying:

• Coat it lightly with arrowroot powder before frying vegetables, chicken, or seafood, achieving nice, crispy coverage.

These simple uses of arrowroot powder can add value to your daily meals and care practices naturally and healthily.

Arrowroot Powder Side Effects

Arrowroot powder is generally safe for consumption by most people. However, like any food product, it may cause side effects in certain individuals, especially when consumed in large quantities or without moderation. Here are some potential side effects of arrowroot powder:

• Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may be allergic to arrowroot powder, leading to allergic reactions such as skin rashes, itching, or respiratory symptoms. Further, if you experience any allergic symptoms after consuming arrowroot, discontinue its use and seek medical attention.

• Digestive Issues: While arrowroot is gentle on the digestive system, excessive consumption may cause digestive discomfort, including bloating, gas, or diarrhea.

• Caloric Content: Although arrowroot powder is low in calories, consuming it in large quantities without considering overall calorie intake may contribute to weight gain over time.

• Blood Sugar Concerns: While Arrowroot can help stabilize blood sugar levels, individuals with symptoms of diabetes should still be cautious about its consumption and monitor their blood sugar levels regularly.

• Interactions With Medications: If you are taking any medications or have underlying health conditions, consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating arrowroot powder into your diet. It may interact with certain medications or interfere with medical treatments.

• Processing Additives: Also, some commercially processed arrowroot powders may contain additives or preservatives that could trigger sensitivities or allergies in some individuals.

It is essential to understand arrowroot benefits and side effects before incorporating it into your diet for better health management.

A Word From Fitelo

Incorporating arrowroot powder into your diet can be a game-changer for your health. From easing digestive woes to fortifying your immune system, this natural thickener brings remarkable benefits to the table. 

• What Is It?: Arrowroot powder, mostly known for its health benefits, has a lot of versatility. It very often serves as a natural thickener, considered nutritive power when added to a healthy weekly meal plan. It nourishes the body and gives digestive support, skincare, and weight management capabilities.
  
• Nutritional and Medicinal Value: Among many, arrowroot is rich in nutrients like potassium, magnesium, and fiber, while it serves as an alternative for those who seek to eat healthy in cooking and baking. It is low-calorie and fat-free.
  
• Special Diet Support: Arrowroot powder is gluten-free and easily digestible, making it suitable for gluten intolerant and not necessarily for those who prefer specific diets such as paleo or low-calorie diets.
  
• Health Benefits of Arrowroot Powder:
  • Digestive Aid: It is mild on the stomach, supportive of digestion, and suitable for someone who suffers any digestive issues, including diarrhea. Also, read about the home remedies for digestion for instant relief.
  • Skin Care: It soothes irritated skin with rashes and absorbs extra oil, leaving skin smooth and fresh.
  • Blood Sugar Regulation: Arrowroot contains resistant starch, which helps moderate blood sugar levels, thereby becoming beneficial while managing diabetes.
  • Immunity Booster: Potassium and magnesium are some nutrients in arrowroot that will support overall health besides enhancing immunity.
    
• Weight Loss Benefits: Arrowroot is a low-calorie thickener that promotes digestion and healthy nutrient absorption, aiding weight management. Its dietary fiber helps curb hunger and prevent you from unhealthy snacking. Arrowroot also provides a boost of energy, which is vital for weight loss and fitness snacking, such as energy bars.
  
• Culinary Versatility: Arrowroot would improve the texture and consistency of anything from soups to smoothies to baking to frying without changing the taste: the perfect staple in one’s cooking arsenal.
  
• Skin Care and Baby Food: Arrowroot’s gentle properties make it perfect for soothing skin conditions and preparing easy-to-digest baby food.
  
• Precautions and Side Effects: While arrowroot powder is generally safe, excessive consumption may cause digestive discomfort, and individuals with allergies or blood sugar concerns should monitor its intake.

Whether you’re whipping up delicious recipes or seeking holistic remedies, arrowroot powder proves to be a valuable ally in supporting your overall well-being. Likewise, learn the goodness of this ancient root, and enjoy a healthier and more vibrant life.

Anuja’s 21 Kg Weight Loss Journey | Dietitian Mac Singh

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can We Drink Arrowroot Powder Daily?

Yes, arrowroot powder can be consumed daily in moderation, especially in the form of porridge or as a thickener in soups and smoothies. Gentle and beneficial for the digestive system, arrowroot has various health benefits.

What Are The Side Effects Of Arrowroot Powder?

Overall, though arrowroot is generally safe, in excess, it can give rise to some digestive unease with symptoms like bloating or diarrhea. Individuals suffering from any kind of allergy or with blood sugar complications should, therefore, use it very cautiously.

What Is Arrowroot Called In India?

Arrowroot powder in India has famous as “Ararot” or “Koova,” which finds much usage in Indian kitchens and medical practices.

Is Arrowroot Powder Heat Or Cold For The Body?

As arrowroot can cool the body, it suits digestive problems and relieves inflammation. Thus, it is sometimes prescribed for these very purposes: during a stomach upset or heat-related conditions.

Is Arrowroot Powder Healthy?

Yes, arrowroot powder is good for health. It is a natural and nutritious thickening agent that aids in digestion, supports heart health, and provides essential vitamins and minerals. It is gentle on the stomach and easily digestible, making it suitable for various dietary preferences and sensitivities.

What Are The Arrowroot Powder Benefits For Skin?

Arrowroot powder has numerous benefits for the skin. It can soothe irritation, rashes, and insect bites due to its anti-inflammatory properties. As a natural absorbent, it helps control excess oil and sebum, making it ideal for oily skin types. You can also use arrowroot powder in DIY face masks to soften the skin and improve its texture.

What Are The Arrowroot Powder Uses In Cooking?

Arrowroot powder is a versatile ingredient in cooking. It works as an excellent thickener for sauces, gravies, and soups, providing a smooth and glossy texture. People often use arrowroot powder as a gluten-free alternative to cornstarch in baking recipes. People use arrowroot powder to coat fried foods, giving them a crispy texture.

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We’re never leaving you hanging with doubts, queries, as well as confusing questions. We understand how all this information gets overwhelming as well as a little confusing on your way to a healthy lifestyle. Hence, you can always contact us at any time as our experts are here to guide you 24/7. Also, we will help you achieve your weight loss goals.

Disclaimer

This blog post was written to help you to make healthy and better food choices altogether. So, be aware and take care. The important thing to consider is your health before starting a restrictive diet. Always seek advice from a doctor/dietitian before starting if you have any concerns.

Eat Healthy, Live Healthy as well as Enjoy a long happy life.