Tiger nuts are ancient root vegetables native to Africa but now cultivated in various parts of Europe and North America.
Also known as chufa, earth almonds, or nutsedge, tiger nuts are a great source of potassium, fiber, and magnesium. In this post, we look at some of the key benefits of tiger nuts.
According To Amrit Walia, Co-Founder Of Pioneer Sustainable Agriculture in Nigeria, Tiger nuts come with a wide range of health benefits including heart health and weight loss. They have high levels of vitamin E, which makes them a popular ingredient in most natural health supplement products.
Tiger nuts also provide other essential nutrients such as zinc, phosphorus, sodium, calcium, folic acid, and many more, Amrit Walia says.
Some of the key health benefits of eating tiger nuts include the following:
1. Easing Constipation
The high fiber content in tiger nuts automatically improves digestion and regulates blood sugar levels. As a result, tiger nuts make bowel movement easier and smoother.
The magnesium component is mainly responsible for this function. As a good source of insoluble fiber, tiger nuts are known to add bulk to stools in an effort to clean out the intestinal tract.
2. Works as an Aphrodisiac
Tiger nuts are capable of causing a dramatic increase in sex drive and libido.
The tuber contains large amounts of Vitamin E which is known to improve the motility of sperm, overall sperm count, and also boosting the sex drive. As an antioxidant, Vitamin E helps to fight toxic compounds like benzene, mercury, and lead.
That is why health practitioners in the Middle East call tiger nut “Hab Al-zulom” the Arabic for “the seeds of men” because they discovered that it promoted sexual behavior in both humans and animals.
3. Maintaining Cardiovascular Functions
Tiger nuts contain high levels of iron and healthy fats in the form of monounsaturated fatty acids.
These natural fats also found in olive oil, avocado, walnuts, and almonds are known to lower cholesterol levels. Monounsaturated fatty acids are indispensable in reducing the risk of heart disease.
4. Aids in Weight Loss
Tiger nuts have a high percentage of insoluble dietary fiber which absorbs water, takes up space in the stomach, and reduces the need to consume more food.
By creating a sensation of satiety, with a corresponding reduction in cravings, tiger nuts will help you to consume fewer calories.
5. As a Non-Dairy Alternative Snack
People with food allergies to dairy products can benefit greatly by eating tiger nuts. Tiger nut milk is the best non-dairy alternative with a special semi-sweet flavor ideal for coating appetizers.
Tiger nut flour is the best choice in gluten-free baking. The flour is made by first roasting the nuts and then grounding them into a fine powder.
6. A Rich Source of Vegetable Protein
A regular intake of tiger nuts is essential for building muscles, tissues, bones, and body cells.
By providing healthy cell production and growth, tiger nuts promote better muscle gain and stronger bones.
Conclusion
Tiger nuts have many health benefits. They can be consumed raw or cooked. Raw tiger nuts are safe and ready for eating.
They can also be consumed in other ways such as baking them into tasty desserts. Tiger nuts can also be cooked or roasted. The latter is one way of boosting their antioxidant properties. Tiger nuts also provide great snacks when roasted with spices such as cinnamon.
Have you tried tiger nuts before? Please share your experience with us in the comments below!