The Longevity Secret: Taro Root from China's 'Hometown of Longevity'

In the city of Hezhou, located in Guangxi Province, China, which is famously known as the "Hometown of Longevity," there are 474 elderly people who are living healthily and enjoying long lives. One of these individuals, Mrs. Huang Guome, born in 1913, is 107 years old and lives with five generations of her family. For nearly a century, Mrs. Huang has consumed a specific food every day - taro root.

Why is Taro Root So Special for Longevity?

So, what makes taro root so beneficial that Mrs. Huang and others in her village consume it regularly? Let’s explore the health benefits of taro root that contribute to longevity:

Supports Spleen and Stomach Health

Taro root helps regulate the flow of qi (vital energy) in the spleen and enhances digestive function in the stomach. While it is high in starch, taro contains two types of carbohydrates that are beneficial for managing blood sugar: fiber and resistant starch. These two types of carbohydrates are indigestible by the human body.

Since the body cannot digest or absorb fiber and resistant starch, they remain in the intestines. Once they reach the colon, they act as food for gut bacteria, promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria. Studies have shown that consuming fiber and resistant starch can help combat inflammatory bowel diseases and reduce the risk of colon cancer.

Detoxifies the Body

Taro root has properties that help eliminate phlegm and cleanse the lungs, making it effective in detoxifying the body and removing harmful toxins.

Improves Bowel Movement

Taro is rich in fiber, which helps to increase bowel motility, absorb water, and speed up the elimination of stool, effectively improving and preventing constipation.

Boosts Immune Function

Taro contains a type of mucilage protein that, once absorbed by the body, helps produce immunoglobulins or antibodies, enhancing the body’s resistance to illness.

Prevents Blood Clots

The nutrients in taro root are beneficial for the blood, helping to prevent small blood clots and improving blood circulation.

Promotes Bone Health

Taro is high in magnesium, which promotes the absorption of calcium in the body, supporting strong and healthy bones.

Helps Control Blood Sugar

Since fiber and resistant starch are not absorbed by the body, taro root does not impact blood sugar levels. Additionally, it slows down the digestion and absorption of other carbohydrates, helping to prevent blood sugar spikes after meals.

Reduces the Risk of Heart Disease

The fiber and resistant starch in taro root can help reduce the risk of heart disease. One 132-gram serving of taro contains 6 grams of fiber, which is twice the amount found in potatoes of the same weight. Resistant starch also helps lower cholesterol, which is associated with a reduced risk of heart disease.

Cancer Prevention

Taro contains plant compounds known as polyphenols, which offer numerous health benefits, including the potential to reduce cancer risk. The primary polyphenol in taro is quercetin, also found in onions, apples, and tea. Studies on cells and animals have shown that quercetin can trigger cancer cell death and slow the growth of certain cancers. It is also a powerful antioxidant that protects the body from excessive damage linked to cancer.

Aids Weight Loss

With its high fiber and resistant starch content, taro root increases feelings of fullness, reduces overall calorie intake, and boosts fat burning, which may lead to weight loss and fat reduction.

Taro root has become a staple in the diet of people from Hezhou, helping them maintain good health and live longer lives. Whether you’re looking to improve your digestion, boost your immune system, or reduce your risk of chronic diseases, incorporating taro into your daily diet may just be the key to a healthier, longer life.