Tiger nut also called ground almond or tiger nut or chufa (Afio in Fon language) is a small tuber from a herbaceous plant from the Mediterranean basin, which can be consumed fresh on site or after drying. Today, we produce our milk, its oil and flour which is also very popular as a seasoning in meals and in the making of cakes. However, many people consume this food, without knowing the benefits it contains.
Tiger nuts have been used for centuries for their healing and regenerative properties.. Considered a superfood, due to its exceptional nutritional characteristics, among which a high concentration of minerals such as phosphorus stands out, magnesium, iron and calcium, tiger nut also provides vitamins E and C, unsaturated fats and proteins. This tuber therefore has many health benefits.. It helps reduce cholesterol thanks to vitamin E, antioxidant and its ratio of oleic or omega acid and relieves the symptoms of arteriosclerosis thanks to an essential amino acid. Thanks to its arginine content, tiger nut contributes to the healing of our organs and is therefore recommended in the treatment of ulcers. Moreover, il peut être consommé par les personnes atteintes de la maladie cœliaque ou les diabétiques puisqu’il contient ni gluten ni glucose. However, this food contains starch and sucrose and therefore represents a good source of energy.
Tigernut is also distinguished by its potential in insoluble fiber which facilitates digestion., prevent constipation and help lose weight by acting as an appetite suppressant. It relieves all gastrointestinal complaints including gas and bloating thanks to its level of amylase and lipase.. Tigernut is quite simply a good regulator of intestinal function. It is therefore advisable to consume it regularly as part of any diet.. Likewise, it is recommended in case of fatigue, the stress, and athletes because of its high zinc ratio. Moreover, this food contains enzymes, trace elements (potassium, phosphorus, calcium and magnesium).
Apart from its digestive virtues, diuretics, stimulating and emmenagogue tonics, tiger nut has great effectiveness in the treatment of erectile disorders, low libido and poor quality sperm (oligospermie, asthenospermia and even azoospermia) thanks to its concentration of vitamin E, B8 and trace element. In women, Consumption of tigernut helps stimulate the appearance of periods, regulation of the menstrual cycle and fight against fragility and sterility.
The harmful effects of tiger nut
However, Excessive consumption of one stalk can cause indigestion due to its high fiber content Tiger nuts high fiber, whether juice or nuts, when consumed in too large quantities, especially floods, can damage the system to some extent. It can cause indigestion, it is not healthy for people with digestive disorders to consume large quantities of tiger nuts, because they are high in fiber which may not be digested easily. People sensitive to high-fiber foods may experience bloating, stomach constipation or even diarrhea when eating too many tiger nuts. Moreover, saponins and tannins can reduce the number of victims and minerals the gut can absorb.
Veronique GBEWOLO (Stag)