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Uncovering The Nutritional Powerhouse Of Tiger Nut.

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By Ahmed Fatima.

In the heart of Nigeria a small, tuber-like nut has been hidding in plain sight packed to be unleashed. Tight nuts, also known as “Aya” in Hausa, “Ofio” in Yoruba and “Aki awusa” in Igbo, have been a staple in Nigerian cuisine for centuries.

But beyond its cultural significance, tiger nuts are a nutritional powerhouse, boasting an impressive array of health benefits that are only now being fully understood.

A Nutritional Profile Of Tiger Nuts: Tiger nuts are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making them an excellent source of fiber, protein and healthy fats including oleic acid, which is also found in olive oil.

There are also rich in vitamins C and E, potassium, magnesium, and iron. In fact, a single serving of tiger nuts (100g) provides up to 30% of the recommended daily intake of these essential nutrients.

Health Benefits Of Tiger Nut: Health benefits of tiger nuts are numerous which have been shown to help lower cholesterol levels, regulate blood sugar, and aid in weight loss.

The high fiber content in tiger nuts can also help prevent constipation and promote digestive system.

According to research, the antioxidants in tiger nuts have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, making them a protein remedy for diseases such as, arthritis and diabetes.
Dr. Adeyemi Olusegun, a nutritionist from Lagos State, noted that.

“Tiger nuts are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which is crucial for maintaining a healthy digestive system.

They are also rich in vitamins and minerals that support overall health. I often recommend them to my patients who needs to improve their dietary fiber intake,”
Dr. Faith Amodu , an endocrinologist based in Abuja, explain further.

“The low glycemic index of tiger nuts makes them suitable for individuals diabetes. Their high fiber content helps regulate blood sugar levels, which is essential for managing the disease,”
Mariam Audu, a 35-year-old teacher from Anyigba, shares.

“I started eating tiger nut as a snack during my lunch breaks. They not only taste great but also keep me full and energized through out the day. I have noticed a significant improvement in my digestion as well,”

Usman, a farmer from Kano State.
“We have been growing been growing tiger nuts for generations. It is amazing see the world finally recognizing their value. It is not just a source of income for us but a part of our diet. I drink kunu made from tiger nut every morning; it is refreshing and keeps me healthy,”

Chioma, a young lady of 24-year-old from Enugu State,
“I have been taking tiger nuts for some years now, right from my teenage hood down to this level and i love to taking it for so many reasons. It very nutritional fruit with a low sugar content, for someone like me who work out and on calorie deficit, i munch on tiger nuts instead of junks as a way of controlling my diet.

Tradition and Culture of Tiger Nuts: Tiger nuts have been an integral part of Nigerian culture for centuries, with different ethnic groups having their unique way of preparing and consuming them. In the North, tiger nuts are roasted and grounded into a fine powder known as “kunu Aya,” which is used to make a nutritious drink. In the South, tiger nuts are boiled and eaten as a snack or grounded into a flour and use for baking.
However, in today’s world, tiger nuts are now being use in variety of “modern” application, from baking and cooking to cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. Tiger nuts oil for example, is used in skincare products due to its moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties. Tiger nuts flour is also used as a gluten free substitute in baking, and as a thickening agent in soups and sauce.
Nigeria’s Tiger Nut Industry: Nigeria is one of the largest producers of tiger nuts in the world, with the majority coming from the northern regions of the country.

The tiger nut industry in Nigeria is worth millions of naira, with local farmers and traders playing a significant role in the supply chain.

However, despite its economic potential, the industry faces challenges such as lack of regulation, inadequate processing facilities, and limited access to international markets.

Tiger nuts are a nutritional powerhouse that deserves more attention.

With their rich nutritional profile and numerous health benefits, they have the potential to improve the health and wellbeing of millions of Nigerians.

Therefore, as the demand for healthy foods continues to grow, it is time to recognize the value of tiger nuts and invest in the industry’s growth and development and by doing so, we can unlock the full potential of this nutritious nut and make it a staple in Nigerian cuisine for generations to come.

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