Health Benefits of Saluyot

Rose May Pimentel in Health

Jun 26, 2023 • 3 min Read

Saluyot, or jute leaves has been part of the staple foods since ancient times and considered in the top 10 most nutritious green and leafy vegetables in the Philippines.

Saluyot’s mild flavor and texture make it a great addition to soups, stews, stir-fries, salads, grilled dishes, smoothies, and juices. Saluyot has been used for generations in Pinoy cuisines like sinigang, dinengdeng, and pinakbet. The ancient Tagalogs and Kapampangans employed it as a medicinal herb because they felt it had therapeutic effects for various disorders.

Here are some of the amazing benefits of this veggie, from the JuteBag website:

1. Protects eye health 

Most eye diseases are results of poor diet and nutrient deficiencies. Saluyot has a high content of Vitamin B6 which is linked to good eye health. It contains 0.0496mg of vitamin B6 which is over 30% of the recommended daily value. Regular consumption of saluyot can help in slowing the onset of some eye diseases including age-related muscular degeneration.

 2. Rich in antioxidants

Saluyot is rich in Vitamins E, A and C. These three nutrients are potent antioxidants that protect the cells from free radicals. The antioxidants in these leaves can also help improve vision and fertility among others.

3. Fights off Colds and Flu

Vitamin C which is abundant in saluyot is essential in helping the immune system ward off colds and viruses. Vitamin C can also keep you from suffering further complications like lung infections and pneumonia.

4. Improves digestion

Saluyot is rich in fiber. Dietary fiber is one of the major elements that help in regulating the digestive process. It helps you avoid constipation, bulk up stool, and speed up digestion. Having a fiber-rich diet also helps increase the uptake efficiency of nutrients and reduces symptoms like cramping and gas.

5. Promotes weight loss

Saluyot has a variety of properties that are critical in helping manage body weight. Their high fiber content is essential in improving digestion and keeping you feeling full. Research has also shown that these copper-rich leaves can helps reduce the levels of bad cholesterol (LDL) and increase beneficial cholesterol. Saluyot has about 0.222mg of copper which can dramatically help reduce the chances of cardiovascular diseases as well as promote a healthy weight.

6. Improves sleeping patterns

For people suffering from sleeping disorders like sleep apnea and insomnia, saluyot might be of help. It is rich in magnesium which is the mineral that helps treat and improve such conditions. Magnesium aids in the release of hormones that relax and soothe the nerves. By increasing your magnesium intake, you can improve your sleep quality for restful and uninterrupted sleeping patterns.

7. Supports cell growth and skin health

The skin and cells require vitamin A which aids in wound healing and regrowth of skin. Vitamin A is essential in the growth of epithelial cells both externally and internally and helps prevent skin cancer. Saluyot has an abundance of Vitamin A. Eating them regularly can help prevent various skin conditions like poor complexion, acne, lines, and wrinkles. It promotes healthy skin as well as hair growth.

Saluyot is a nutrient powerhouse, a superfood, and a great dose of essential vitamins and minerals.

Stay healthy and safe!

Featured Photo Source: Mari