Sago is a food product that is made from tapioca root. The root is cleaned, crushed and peeled to release the milk. The milk is then allowed to settle in a tank for up to eight hours so that the residual impurities float on the top and then drained out of the settled milk. The settled milk cake is then turned into small globules using a specially designed machine. These globules are then sorted depending based on the sizes, using sieves and then roasted on hot plates or steamed depending on the desired product. The sago is then dried on big platforms under direct sunlight.
Sometimes they might be polished for the extra shine. It is the starch that is extracted from the spongy canter from various tropical palm stems. It is the major staple food of people from New Guinea or the Moluccas, sago has a special place in India as well. Here are 7 amazing benefits of Sago:
7 Must Know Health Benefits of Sago You Need to Know
Enhances Performance
Sago is a great source of carbohydrates and instant energy. Having Sago before a workout can help in enhancing your performance. Studies suggest that having carbs like sago before any workout enhances your performance on the field, keeps you energetic and also helps in the recovery after a burnout or workout. Drinking beverages that consist of sago can help in reducing fatigue and increases exercise endurance.
Keeps Hair Healthy
Sago is very beneficial for hair. It possesses a variety of amino acids and carotenoids that help in useful hair growth. It is also good for the scalp and hair as it contains antifungal and antimicrobial characteristics which makes it a must-have for dandruff prone scalp. It can be applied as a herbal paste on the scalp.
Keeps the Skin Healthy
Sago has mind-blowing effects on the skin. Sago can be used as a powder or it can be used by being soaked. The mashed paste of sago helps in revitalizing the skin. A herbal mask with Sago and milk and honey can have benefits for the skin that include removal of suntan, equalizing irregular skin complexion, which are possible because of the rejuvenating and protective traits of sago.
Helps in Keeping Acne Away
Sago helps to revitalize the skin in a variety of ways which keeps the skin healthy and can also act as an agent that keeps acne away. Sago has tannins which are plant compounds with anti-inflammatory qualities. Applying a face back with Sago can help in decreasing pimples, boils and acne. It is also beneficial for brushing away scars and spots.
Treats Diarrhoea
Sago is a good source of dietary fibre. Including dietary fibre in your diet can act as a catalyst to bowel movements. Sago can be a great source of nutrition to create an optimal food passage within the intestine and regulate the faecal bulk. Consuming a dish with Sago can promote metabolism act as a remedy for Diarrhoea and also keeps the risk of colon cancer at bay.
Healthy for Babies
The nutrients present in sago are beneficial for the nutrient requirements, and demands of a growing baby. The starchy content in Sago helps in giving the baby enough nutrition for growth and weight gain. It assists in the development of routine and is a wholesome food option for babies of more than one year of age.
Treats Anaemia
Women and children worldwide experience anaemia. The disease because of the deficiency of iron makes women, children and people less productive and experience fatigue. Sago is the powerhouse of iron, it is a boon for those suffering from low iron and haemoglobin levels in their blood and thus it is effective in treating anaemia and reduce the chances of being anaemic.
Side Effects of Sago
Sago is not harmful for consumption, however, one must be careful not to take Sago if on a weight loss diet as it contains starch which helps in gaining weight. Consuming too much sago can result in constipation, bloating, particularly in those with heart diseases or diabetes. Sago has presence of glycosides which is harmful if uncooked Sago is consumed. Uncooked Sago intake can lead to Vomiting, Diarrhoea, and damage to the liver.
Sago Side Effects for Babies
Sago is completely safe for the baby however, giving too much sago can lead to weight gain in the baby. It is advisable to consider the doctor’s advice before feeding sago to your baby. Some babies might experience allergic reactions, like swelling of the lips, abdominal cramps, itching in the mouth, rash and reddening of the skin, pain, vomiting, and diarrhoea.
Sago is a nutritious food item, they are small packets of nutrition, but one must avoid eating it uncooked. Taking medical advice before adding anything to the meal is a great way to avoid side effects.
Source:
- https://prorganiq.com/blogs/new/Sago-health-benefits-uses-side-effects
- https://www.mylittlemoppet.com/can-i-give-my-baby-Sago/
- https://www.netmeds.com/health-library/post/Sago-health-benefits-nutrition-uses-for-skin-and-hair-recipes-side-effects
- https://nirogstreet.com/blog/herbs/Sago-health-benefits
