Cassava
What is Cassava?
Cassava is a root vegetable that has recently gained popularity as a gluten-free grain substitute. The root can be eaten whole (it must be cooked) or ground into cassava flour to be used in products like chips, tortillas, breads, and crackers. Cassava root may be called yuca and is also used to produce tapioca . While this ingredient has become more popular in the past few years in the United States, it is widely consumed as a dietary staple in many countries across the world and is native to South America.
Is Cassava Beneficial for Autism?
Generally, yes, though the more processed the less beneficial. Cassava is high in resistant starch that feeds beneficial bacteria in the gut. Children on the autism spectrum are at higher risk for dysbiosis, or the imbalance of the gut bacteria. In one study, rats that were fed with cassava flour diets gained less weight and had tighter intestinal barriers than rats fed with cassava starch. This diet also encouraged growth of beneficial bacteria and butyrate. [1]
Nutritionally, cassava is a great source of vitamin C. Children on the autism spectrum have been shown to consume less vitamin C and be at risk for scurvy, or vitamin C deficiency. [2, 3]. Cassava is naturally high in calories, so excessive intake of cassava may encourage weight gain.
It’s important to note that the processing of cassava will impact its nutritional value. Whole, cooked cassava root will have the highest levels of nutrients, while processed or fried cassava made into snack foods will have lower levels of vitamins and minerals. Even so, it can be a great gluten-free grain alternative for those following a gluten-free or grain-free diet, just be sure to watch out for other undesirable added ingredients in the product. We recommend Siete products for the best ingredients and quality!
Nutrient Breakdown
In ½ cup of cassava [4]:
165 calories
1.5 g protein
0 g fat
39 g carbohydrates
2 g fiber
16 mg calcium
21 mg magnesium
20 mg vitamin C
Ways to Enjoy Cassava
Roasted cassava
Mashed yuca
Yuca fries
The brand Siete has an entire collection of cassava-based products:
Cassava Alternatives
If your child doesn’t like cassava yet or they are sensitive to it, here are some alternatives that are similar in nutritional value!
BOTTOM LINE:
Cassava can be a great food to include in the diet for children on the autism spectrum due to the resistant starch and vitamin C content. Keep in mind that processed and fried cassava will have fewer nutritional benefits, so opt for the least processed recipes and products to increase nutrient intake.
