Six health benefits of tiger nuts || See
The tiger nut is actually a tuber, despite its name. The tuber crop with the sweet, almond-like flavor is becoming more well-liked as a health food.
Tiger nuts, also referred to as Ofio in Yoruba, Aki Hausa, Imumu in Igbo, and Aya in Hausa, can be consumed either raw or roasted. For individuals who don’t like dairy milk, it can be extracted and used as milk; it can also be used in baking.
The advantages of Tiger nuts are as follows:
Since tiger nuts are a high source of antioxidants, it prevents aging. Free radicals are unstable molecules that the body produces in response to environmental and other stressors, and they can harm cells. Antioxidants are compounds that can stop or slow down this damage.
2. It improves digestion: Tiger nuts are a good source of fibre. Dietary fibre aids digestion by increasing the frequency of stools and relieving constipation.
3. It may reduce blood sugar levels: Tiger nuts may help keep your blood sugar levels in check. Healthline notes that animal studies show that tiger nut extract may help reduce blood sugar levels due to the high fiber content of the tubers, which may slow down the absorption of sugar in the gut.
4. It suppresses appetite: A journal published in the international journal for innovative research in the multidisciplinary field showed that tiger nuts are also said to act as a mild appetite suppressant. This helps keep us feeling fuller for longer and also reduces the number of calories we absorb from the food.
5. It may boost your immune system, fight infections: Studies have shown that tiger nut extracts are effective against E. coli, Staphylococcus, and Salmonella bacteria. The extracts might also be effective at fighting antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections. However, more studies are needed to draw a strong conclusion.
6. It boosts sex drive: Tiger nuts have been proven to improve sperm count and motility. Medical director and consultant urologist at the Ogah Hospital and Urology Centre, Fugar, Edo State, Dr Gabriel Ogah, said tiger nuts can boost sex drive and libido in individuals.