Abstract

Preliminary comparative of nutritive aspects of food plants

Author(s): Ali Aberoumand

In addition to meeting nutrient intake levels, greater consumption of plant foods is associated with reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, and cancers. The proximate composition and mineral constituents of Chlorophytum comocum root tubers were evaluated. The root tubers contained a ashes: 10.38%,crude protein: 4.54%, crude lipid: 2.00%, crude fiber: 17.24%, and carbohydrates: 65.84%. The leaves and stem also have high energy value (299.52kcal/100g)dryweight where as The fruits contained a ashes: 9.1%,crude protein: 5.44%, crude lipid: 3.25%, crude fiber: 22.9%, and carbohydrates: 59.31%. The fruits also have high energy value (288.25kcal/100g)dry weight. Mineral ranges (mg/100g dry weight, DW) were:K(4.63),Na (1.62), Ca (7.37), Fe (5.04), and Zn (3.83).Comparing the root tubersmineral contentswith recommended dietary allowances (RDA), the results indicated that Chlorophytum comocum root tubers could be a good supplement for some nutrients such as calcium, fibre and carbohydrates where as the results indicated that Momordica dioica could be a protein, lipid, potassium and Zinc, fibre and carbohydrates. The root tubers and the stem could be promoted as a carbohydrate supplement for cereal-based diets in poor rural communities, while its high potassiumcontent could be utilized for the management of hypertension and other cardiovascular conditions.