Ground Apple (gulia, Jerusalem Artichoke)

The earth apple , also known as the guliya , can also be found under the name Jerusalem artichoke , although its origin has nothing to do with Jerusalem (its homeland is North America). The stem and flowers of the plant look like sunflowers, the stems reach 3 meters in height and the flowers are bright yellow.

The part that is consumed are the root tubers of the plant, resembling the taste of sweet radish.

Nutritional value

100 grams of ground apple contains only 65 calories, 14 grams of carbohydrates, 0 grams of fat and 2 grams of protein. The composition of the root includes vitamins and minerals such as niacin, thiamine, riboflavin, folate, vitamin C and E, phosphorus, calcium, potassium, manganese, selenium, zinc, magnesium and iron.

Health benefits

Gulia contains inulin - a type of fiber that is indigestible to humans and acts as a probiotic in the digestive tract and as food for beneficial bacteria.

When inulin is combined with a liquid and due to its chemical composition, it is formed into a creamy gel that works well for constipation.

Iron is an important nutrient mineral that helps red blood cells deliver oxygen to the body. It also plays an essential role in energy creation, good muscle function and brain development.

Low iron levels can cause the development of iron deficiency anemia, symptoms of which include headache, fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, cold limbs and pale skin. 100 grams of ground apple contains about 43% of the required daily dose of iron.

Vitamin B1, also known as thiamine, helps the body convert sugar into energy and improves concentration and memory. In addition, good thiamine levels are associated with a balanced emotional state.

Thiamine deficiency causes weakness and fatigue, irritability and unexplained weight loss. 100 grams contain 17% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin B1.

Calcium is an essential mineral that the body needs to maintain good health. About 99% of the element is stored in the teeth and bones. It combines with other important minerals to form hard crystals that form the structure and strength of bones.

The best way to prevent osteoporosis is to reach the recommended daily calcium levels through a rich diet combined with daily moderate exercise.

100 grams of ground apple contains 11% of the recommended daily intake of calcium.

Phosphorus is an important mineral that is found in every cell of our body. It helps the kidneys excrete waste efficiently, helps build healthy bones and teeth, promotes muscle function and is important for cell regeneration. In addition, it is involved in the production of energy in the body.

Signs that you need more phosphorus are: loss of appetite, tooth decay, fatigue, irregular breathing, joint and bone pain, anxiety, weight change or poor bone development in children.

100 grams of Jerusalem artichoke contains 11% of the recommended daily intake of the mineral.

Potassium is an important nutrient for the proper function of all tissues, cells and organs in the human body and is vital for muscle contraction while exercising.

People who regularly eat foods high in potassium are less likely to have a stroke. Potassium deficiency includes a number of ailments: severe headaches, anemia, dehydration, fatigue, palpitations, high blood pressure, swelling of the tissues and irritability.

Ground apple is known for the content of heliangin - a bitter substance that stimulates the secretion of the stomach and helps relieve indigestion.

Manner of consumption

Ground apple (including its peel) is eaten raw or cooked. It is successfully combined with various foods and is usually added to soups.

Note that after peeling the tubers, it is good to water them with lemon juice, because otherwise they will turn black quickly.

Contraindications

Consumption of goulash can lead to stomach problems, including gas, diarrhea. People who are sensitive to daisies, turmeric and calendula can get an allergic reaction.