If you're looking for a low-calorie ingredient to add to your meals, consider hearts of palm. Just 1/2 can (130 g) of this tropical vegetable contains only 15 calories, making it a great option for anyone watching their waistline. In addition to being low in calories, hearts of palm also boasts a number of other health benefits.

Hearts of palm is a good source of fiber, helping to promote satiety and maintain healthy digestion. It's also low in fat and high in potassium, which is essential for healthy blood pressure and muscle function. And for those following a non-GMO or gluten-free diet, you'll be happy to know that hearts of palm meets those requirements too.

In this article, we'll explore the many reasons why hearts of palm is a versatile and sustainable choice when it comes to mealtime. From its great taste to its potential for weight loss, hearts of palm is truly a superfood that should not be overlooked.

Low in calories

Hearts of palm is an ideal food for those who are trying to lose weight, since it's low in calories while still being nutrient-dense. Incorporating hearts of palm into your meals can help you feel full without packing on the pounds. In fact, research has shown that consuming hearts of palm can lead to greater weight loss and reductions in body fat, making it a powerful addition to any weight loss diet.

Good source of fiber

Fiber is an essential nutrient for maintaining good health, and hearts of palm is an excellent source of this important nutrient. Just one serving of hearts of palm contains around 2 grams of fiber, helping to keep you feeling full and satisfied. In addition to promoting feelings of fullness and aiding in digestion, fiber has also been linked to numerous health benefits, including improved heart health, lower cholesterol levels, and better blood sugar control.

Low in fat

Unlike many other plant-based foods, hearts of palm is extremely low in fat, making it an excellent choice for those who are trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight. Low-fat diets have been shown to reduce the risk of numerous health conditions, including heart disease, stroke, and certain types of cancer.

High in potassium

Potassium is an essential mineral that plays a critical role in maintaining healthy blood pressure levels and proper muscle function. And with around 600 mg of potassium per serving, hearts of palm is an excellent source of this important nutrient. Diets high in potassium have been associated with a reduced risk of heart disease, stroke, and other chronic conditions, making hearts of palm a great choice for overall health and wellness.

Non-GMO

Many people are concerned about the use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in our food supply. Fortunately, hearts of palm is a non-GMO food that you can feel good about consuming. By choosing non-GMO foods, you can help support sustainable agriculture practices and avoid potential health risks associated with genetically modified crops.

Gluten-free

For those who suffer from celiac disease or gluten intolerance, finding gluten-free foods can be a challenge. Luckily, hearts of palm is naturally gluten-free and can be enjoyed by anyone following a gluten-free diet. In addition to being a safe option for those with gluten intolerance, consuming a gluten-free diet has been linked to numerous health benefits, including improved digestion, increased nutrient absorption, and reduced inflammation.

Good for weight loss

As we mentioned earlier, hearts of palm is an excellent choice for weight loss due to its low calorie and high fiber content. But that's not all - hearts of palm has also been shown to have other weight loss benefits as well. For example, consuming hearts of palm has been linked to reduced hunger and increased feelings of fullness, which can lead to a decrease in overall caloric intake.

Versatile ingredient

One of the best things about hearts of palm is its versatility in the kitchen. This tasty vegetable can be used in a wide variety of recipes, from salads to soups to stir-frys. And not only is hearts of palm versatile in terms of flavor, it's also versatile in terms of texture. Depending on how it's prepared, hearts of palm can be crunchy or tender, making it a great ingredient for a variety of dishes.

Sustainable choice

When it comes to sustainability, hearts of palm is an excellent choice. This tropical vegetable is harvested from the inner core of certain species of palm trees, a process that does not harm the overall health of the tree. In addition, many hearts of palm producers use sustainable farming practices that help to minimize the environmental impact of their operations.

Great taste

Last but not least, hearts of palm tastes great! Its mild, slightly sweet flavor makes it a delicious addition to a wide variety of dishes, and its unique texture adds depth and interest to any plate. Whether used as a crunchy salad topper, a creamy soup ingredient, or a tender stir-fry component, hearts of palm is sure to please any palate.