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News India Live, Digital Desk: Arrowroot Powder: You must have often used arrowroot powder in your kitchen to thicken soup, make pakodas crispy or in fasting food. Many people consider it to be just an alternative to cornflour. But do you know that this white colored powder not only improves the taste and texture of food, but is also a treasure trove of health properties? Arrowroot, also known as Arrowroot (Tikhur), is a starch prepared from the roots of a plant, which is very easy to digest and rich in nutrients.
Let us know the extraordinary health benefits of this simple looking arrowroot powder and some important things related to its use.
Health Benefits of Arrowroot
1. Boon for the stomach
Arrowroot is no less than a medicine for stomach problems. It is gluten-free, making it a great option for those who are allergic to wheat. Its starch is very light on the stomach and works to bind the stomach in problems like diarrhea. It may also be helpful in reducing the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
2. Helpful in weight loss
If you are trying to lose weight, then including arrowroot in your diet can be beneficial. It contains good amount of protein and fiber. Fiber makes you feel full for a long time, which keeps you from eating unnecessarily. At the same time, protein helps in boosting your metabolism.
3. Best diet for children
Being extremely easy to digest, arrowroot is often used as the first food for babies. Porridge or kheer can be made from it and given to children, which is absolutely safe and nutritious for their delicate digestive system.
4. Boost immunity
Prebiotic properties are found in arrowroot. This means that it promotes the good bacteria present in your gut, which are essential for a strong immune system. When your stomach remains healthy, your immunity also increases.
5. Beneficial for the skin
Arrowroot is also used in many cosmetic products, such as dry shampoo and talcum powder. Its powder helps in absorbing excess oil from the skin, making the skin feel soft and fresh. It can also be helpful in curing minor skin infections and rashes.
How to use arrowroot?
- To thicken soups and gravies: Instead of cornflour, make arrowroot paste in cold water and mix it in soup or gravy.
- In baking: It is used in gluten-free baking to make cakes and cookies light and soft.
- To make pakodas or fries crispy: Applying a light coat of arrowroot on fried items makes them crispier.
- In fasting food: Cheelas or puris can be made by mixing it with water chestnut or buckwheat flour.
Are there any side effects of arrowroot? (Side Effects of Arrowroot)
Generally, consumption of arrowroot is considered completely safe. It has no known major side effects. However, excess of anything can be harmful.
- Some people may suffer from mild constipation if they eat it in large quantities.
- If you are allergic to arrowroot, do not consume it.
Overall, arrowroot is a very beneficial and versatile food item. By including it in your diet, you can not only improve your dishes but also provide many benefits to your health.
