Nenita P. Lincod
Malunggay,
known scientifically by its botanical name Moringa
oleifera lank (also called kamunggay by Visayans and marunggay by Ilocos), is veritable miracle vegetable tree
in the Philippines and all countries in the tropics. It is so rich in nutrients
that its image used as the official logo of the Food and Nutrition research
Institute (FNRI) of the department of Science and Technology.
Nutritionists
state that the 100 grams of malunggay leaves yield the following
Ø
75 calories of energy (higher than ampalaya, squash
tomatoes, or carrots)
Ø
5.9 grams protein (higher than cauliflower,
lettuce or mustard)
Ø
12.8 grams carbohydrates (higher than okra,
papaya, or watermelon)
Ø
353 mg calcium (higher than gabi leaves, mongo,
squash, and camote tops)
Ø
3.7 mg niacin (higher than other vegetables
analyzed)
And for thiamin, phosphorus, and
ascorbic acid, malunggay is at the top of the list.
Furthermore,
nutritionists affirm that 200 grams of malunggay leaves would give a nutritive
value roughly equivalent to four eggs and two glasses of milk. Its iron
compound prevents deficiency of red blood cells known as anemia. And being a
very rich source of calcium, it aids in maintaining healthy bones and teeth. This
vegetable also rich in Vitamin A, thus helping prevent xerophthalmia, a disease
of the eye. The vitamin C or ascorbic acid content of malunggay leaves is
higher than those of ampalaya leaves. And for lactating mothers, it helps
produce vitamin-rich milk for the baby.
Because of it’s A, C, and E
Vitamins, which are verypotent antioxidants, malunggay can destroy molecules
which cause aging. Anti-oxidants reduce the development of wrinkles, and are
potent in preventing onset of such chronic diseases as arthritis, cancer, and
heart and kidney diseases.
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