By What is kuzu? Why do some people consume it? We explain everything we know about this food supplement that is so popular in various parts of the world.
Kuzu is a macrobiotic food extracted from a plant native to the Asian continent. It is very popular in Japan and has gradually spread to other cultures and countries. It can be used as a dietary supplement, as its consumption could generate certain health benefits.
However, you should always keep in mind that supplements are the icing on the cake. First, you need to optimize your diet to avoid a deficiency of essential nutrients that could affect your health. Otherwise, you could experience inefficiencies in the functioning of your body’s organs.
What is kuzu?
As we mentioned, kuzu is a food derived from the Pueraria Lobata plant , a vegetable from the legume family . It is known as gé gén in traditional Chinese medicine and is considered one of the “50 essential herbs necessary to ensure good health.”
The root is usually consumed in powder form, in a solution in a liquid medium . It can also be added as an ingredient to many preparations such as soups and sauces. It can even be mixed with coffee or tea. However, today it is also sold in capsules.
Benefits of kuzu
Next, we will discuss the main benefits of consuming kuzu and the scientific position on this matter. Remember that the product should be included in the context of a varied diet.
Helps prevent diseases
According to a study published in the journal Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, kuzu contains a large amount of phytochemical compounds, elements that could help prevent the development of certain complex pathologies. They are capable of neutralizing the formation of free radicals and their subsequent accumulation in the body, which is considered beneficial for health.
In any case, to enjoy all the benefits it can bring us, we must ensure the intake of other flavonoids present in many foods of plant origin. Sports practice also helps, since activity helps us to modulate inflammatory and oxidative mechanisms within the body.
It could combat headaches
The evidence on this is scarce, but traditional Chinese medicine maintains that eating kuzu may prevent and combat headaches. The truth is that the pathophysiology of migraines and similar problems is currently a mystery. Therefore, this theory has not yet been confirmed.
Improves intestinal transit
Kuzu can help combat problems such as diarrhea, constipation and heartburn. It contains a certain amount of insoluble fiber, as well as prebiotic compounds. The latter have been shown to help increase the density of bacteria that inhabit the tube, which is also related to a lower incidence of problems associated with the central nervous system.
It could combat fatigue
In China, kuzu is known as a revitalising agent. It may have a similar effect to royal jelly, and is used to combat physical weakness and fatigue . However, this sensation may be caused by a deficiency of essential nutrients, so if an increased supply of these nutrients is not achieved, the problem will not be permanently solved.
Kuzu, a food that could have many properties
As you have seen, kuzu root could have a number of positive effects on health, but as of today we cannot say that its effects have been proven. It is a root that has not been studied extensively, so more tests will be needed to clear up any doubts. On the other hand, the risks derived from its ingestion are not precisely known.
In general, it is recommended to avoid consumption during pregnancy and breastfeeding. We do not know how it may affect the fetus through the placenta. For this reason, it is best to be cautious and avoid its inclusion in the diet in this context.