COLOCASIA / SEPPANKIZHANGU

Taro root ( Seppankizhangu ) is a good source of fiber and many vitamins and minerals that the standard American diet frequently lacks.Taro root contains fiber and resistant starch, which both slow digestion and reduce blood sugar spikes after meals.Taro root is high in fiber and resistant starch, which help lower cholesterol and reduce your risk of heart disease.Taro root contains polyphenols and antioxidants that may combat cancer growth and protect your body from oxidative stress. Yet, more research in this area is needed.Due to its high fiber and resistant starch content, taro root may increase feelings of fullness, reduce overall calorie intake and increase fat burning, potentially leading to weight loss and reduced body fat.The fiber and resistant starch in taro root are fermented by gut bacteria to form short-chain fatty acids, which may protect against colon cancer and inflammatory bowel disease.One cup (132 grams) of cooked taro has 187 calories — mostly from carbs — and fewer than one gram each of protein and fat .