6 Reasons Why Occasional Bitters are a Healthy Way

Bitters are usually sweet, Sounds like the opposite, but it's true, some of us never bother to include bitter foods into our diet, Apart from herbal bitter mixtures, some vegetable and fruits are naturally bitter, they include, bitter leaf, utazi, eggplant leave, kuding tea, Neem leaves, Bitter gourd,  bitter melon, fenugreek etc.

6 Reasons Why Bitter Foods are good.

1.  Bitters Help Keep Your Blood Sugar Under Control.

Some may think this benefit applies only to the older generation.  But it does affect the youth, even the teens as well.  High blood sugar can affect anybody.  It is important to control these sugar cravings even earlier before it becomes a problem. 
Occasional bitters in our diet is a healthy way.

3.  Occasional bitters enhances the liver function in the aspect of metabolism.  If there is too much oil and fat in the liver.  You liver is heated up and finds it difficult to deal with it, the presence of bitters in the diet will assist in cooling this stress off the liver thereby cooling the entire body.


3.  Occassional bitters starves yeast and candida.  These are unhealthy bacterial that feeds on sugar including cancer. the more sweets we consume, the more we feed them or rather the fatter they grow.  It will be a healthy idea to starve them with the addition  of bitters.

4.  Bitters Help ward off some common disease like malaria and typhoid.  If you are in the habit of always taking drugs for either malaria or typhoid, try the inclusion of bitters and watch your health improve generally.

5.  Bitter foods general strenghtens our immune system by reducing inflammations and general body weakness. If you are always weak and tired,. try including bitters.  Your energy level will increase.  

6.  Most bitters help burn unwanted fat.  So if you are obese and desire a reduction in weight,  try consuming bitter foods.  You may well not require much effort taking off those fat.

Read More

What to take for breakfast? Look at this

            
Thinking of what to take for breakfast?,  yes we are in it together.  This morning, after several thought, I came up with this recipe. Oats with bitter cocoa and low fat milk with honey, top with egg, few pieces of baked potatoes in organic peanut oil.

Apart from tasting great and filling me up, It seems like a good therapy for constipation. Made my  bowel move and rich in nutrients.

10. Benefits of this combination for breakfast.

1.  Rich in fibre especially those in oats
2.  Rich in protein both from plant source
3.  Rich in nutrients especially, B
vitamins and magnesium
4.  High in anti oxidants for neutralizing free radicals
5.  Has anti inflammatory effect arising from bitter cocoa
6.  Free from additives, flavourings and colourings
7.  Easy and simple recipe
8.  No need for too much oil.
9.   Provides quality energy
10. Palatable to taste

Ingredients:

One satchet oats of 50g
One teaspoon bitter cocoa
Medium glass clean water.

Put water on fire while boiling add oats
Followed by the cocoa till it tickens to your choice. 
Bring it down. Add your honey and milk to taste.  It's ready

Then get your lightly stewed egg and baked potatoes, or if you prefer, two or three slices of bread with your egg.  And your rich breakfast is ready with numerous health benefits.

Read More

Ten Health Benefits of Peanuts

Peanuts is one  of my healthiest snacks as at today.  When we talk of peanuts we are simply talking of our common groundnuts.  With increasing difficulty in getting netting protein for the entire family, including groundnuts in most of your family menu will help ensure you and your family are getting sufficient protein daily.  Besides, they are delicious, and could be prepared in various ways:

1.  Boiling
2.  Frying
3.  Roasting
4.  Peanut butter or even as
5.  Kuli Kuli ( local peanut snack from northern Nigeria

Whichever  way you prefer to consume peanut,  It is a protein rich nut that is  always handy. 

Ten Health Benefit s of peanuts.

1.  A source of protein
2.  A source of vitamin E
3.  Source of Healthy fats
4.  Good for the heart
5.  Fights free radicals
6.  Healthy brain
7.  Protects your skin
8.  A source of iron
9.  A source of selenium
10. Rich in Fibre

.1.  A Source of Protein:  Despite the efforts in trying to create awareness on the importance of including sufficient protein in our family's daily menu,  so many are still not knowledgeable in this area.  Protein is the building block.  The body uses protein to repair dead cell, and provide what new cells requires to come up.  Without protein wounds cannot heal.   This is especially important in growing children, peanuts also contain zinc. A trace mineral required for growth.  Without protein, blood sugar will go unchecked leading to diabetes and other health issues,  your liver needs protein protection, without protein, the liver can easily be damaged.  Without protein, free radicals and yeasts grow out of proportion.   Peanut is a cheap source of protein and nature knew we need it,  most likely the reason,  it is available all year round and affordable too.

2.  It is a source of Vitamin E.  This is a very important antioxidant rarely found in most foods but abundant in peanut.  It helps protect the mucus membrane and also fight free radicals.  It is important for healing of wounds, for brain health, reproductive health and many more, the more reason , you should include peanuts in your regular family menu.

3.  Source of Healthy Fats:
Peanuts is a source of healthy poly saturated, mono unsaturated fats necessary for maintaining healthy lipids and total cholesterol.

4.  Good for your Heart:  The heart is a very important organ and we must eat to keep it healthy.   Peanuts contain nutrients such as vitamin E for healthy heart and arteries.

5.  Fights Free Radicals:
Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant for fighting free radicals and healing the damage caused by them. If free radicals are not checked, they can cause serious health problems.

6.  Healthy Brain:
Peanut is among the best foods for a strong and healthy brain.   Try some peanuts before bedtime and see how well your sleep will flow.  Just make sure you do not overdo it.  If you take in excess, the result will be negative.

7. Protects your Skin:  Everybody desires a healthy smooth and shiny skin.  If you are experiencing dry scaly skin, then its time to start consuming peanuts.

8.  A source of Iron.  Iron deficiency  is common among women and growing children especially teenage girls.  Every woman should work to ensure that her family gets sufficient iron.  You can use peanut butter to thicken some soups, so in so doing, you increase the iron in  your regular menus  like soups.

9.  A source of selenium.  This is particularly needed by women for strengthening the muscles and reducing injuries around the joints.  Though only a small amount is needed, its absence can affect the health in a lot of ways.

10. Rich in Fibre:  The fibre is peanuts are usually removed after frying and stocking in bottles to make them attractive.  However, if peanuts are boiled, the nutrients at the back i.e the fibre is retained and this  is the source of resversterol, a cancer fight part of peanut.  It also helps bowel movement.  Fibre in peanuts also help in regulating blood  sugar.

Peanuts are usually tasty,  we are advised to be cautious.  It may create acidity in the body and raise blood pressure if taken in excess.  It is best taken with alkaline foods like eggplant and cucumbers. 

Read More

Start Eating These 21 Foods If You have Pain

Start Eating These 21 Foods If you Have Pain

If you suffer pain in any part of your body or whether rheumatism or arthritis,  you are not alone especially during the rainy season like this.  It is tempting to rush for medication, especially if the pain is severe,  but why wait for the pain to be severe, once you experience pain in any part of your body,  search for these foods are include them in your regular meals to reduce the inflammation and increase blood flow to the part where the pain is located:  Most of them contain natural ingredients that will not only kill the pain but destroy bacterial that can complicate the condition:

1.  Tumeric either fresh or the powder
2.  Ginger root
3.  Olive oil
4.  Salmon
5.  Garlic
6.  Mistletoe tea
7.  Green tea
8.  Noni
9.  Sardine
10. Moringa leaves powder
11. Yoghurt
12. Mint tea
13.  Hot peppers like cayenne
14. Coconut water
15. Nuts and seeds
16. Millet
17. All green vegetables including  bitter leaf
18. Sorghum tea
19.Coffee.  - moderately due to its high caffeine content
20. Honey instead of sugar
21. Plenty of water especially in the morning upon waking up. 

It is also important to avoid eating late, stress and embrace more sleep.  Avoid foods containing preservatives and make effort to consume only fresh foods

Read More

5 Reasons to take Water instead of Junk Food

Better To drink Only Water Than Junk Food

Have you ever stopped to ask why water is so ubiquitous.  I have personally found out that despite the campaign and the many write-ups on the health benefits of taking sufficient water, so many still move around dehydrated  without them knowing.  God our creator actually want us to take plenty of it, and that may be the reason why its everywhere.  Though portable water in Nigeria is yet to be attained, that definitely cannot excuse us for leaving our body without sufficient water.  5 Reasons to Take Water instead of Junk Food:

1.  Your body composition is made up of more water than food

2.  Water does the work of trans portation.  Meaning it helps carry digested food to the various locations where they are needed.  So that your being tasty may not be for food but water.  The foods previously eaten are waiting for transportation.

3.  Your body works very hard to digest the food.   If  you are tired, rest first instead of asking for food cos you want to give your body work.

4.  Junk foods are truly junk, they do your body no much good,  they become stressors not giving your body the chance to rest.

5.  Water is a cleanser.  Water helps your internal organs just as it does the outside.

More water, more water.  No fast food, No junk food,  please
.

Read More

Five Reasons You Should try this Fruit

    .

Have you observed this fruit in the market?  It is a seasonal fruit, usually available during the rainy season around June and July.  It is called mmimi in Igbo Language and pepper fruit is its popular name in English though I am yet to know its botanical name.  Have you wondered why it is available during this season. It will be interesting you have a taste of it,   Here are five reasons you should give this fruit a try:

1.   It is a Raw Food:   What do I mean by this? Research is showing day  by day that the more raw foods we consume the better for our body.  As we age, the release of gastric juice is reduced making it difficult to have 100% absorption from the foods we consume.  Raw foods have higher absorption rate in our bodies.  It is actually not about how much food we consume, but the amount of nutrients from the food that are utilized by our body.  It is one reason I decided to give it a try.

2.  It is a Low Calorie Food:  For those of us who are conscious of gaining weight, it will pay of to pick interest in low calorie foods, as their consumption are not likely to  lead to weight gain.

3.  It is a Seasonal Food:  As you are aware, seasonal foods are good for us.  They are meant to combat disease.  On tasting the fruit, I found it is very hot, and gives an anti inflammatory feeling and.  It is actually hot both in the mouth and inside the body.  It must be alkaline food that will be great in preventing cancer arthritis and other inflammatory diseases.

4.  It is a Metabolism Boosting Food:  If you are feeling slugging and heavy due to cold weather.  Then you need fruits like mmimi to speed up your metabolism.  You will personally observe that the spicy nature of the fruit helps get your food digested fast, thereby avoiding fat building up due to slow metabolism.

5.  It Keeps cold away and Strengthen Immune:  Pepper fruit sends heat into the whole body and seem to increase circulation which is important in maintaining a strong immune system. 

Finally, it important to try adding or introducing new foods and fruits such as this.  body will say "Thank You" for  it.  Variety they say is the spice of life.  There must be a reason, it is sent our way during this season.  
Enjoy it.  It is an immune boosting food. 

It you suffer stomach  ulcer, particularly a fresh wound, it may be an irritant which may tend to irritate the wound,  Otherwise, enjoy this spicy fruit especially if you are in your fifties.  More research is definitely needed on this fruit to reveal most of its health benefits.

Read More

Pain Killers Already in Your Kitchen

Pain is something that we go through at one time or the other, whether young or old, one thing is however certain, older people are more prone to pains either arthritis, rheumatic pains or pains arising from cold whichever.

It is important to know that some foods actually make your pains worse such as milk especially full cream, fried foods, high fat foods like butter and margarine, artificial sweeteners and taste enhancers like bouillon cubes, caffeine, starchy foods and some pharmaceutical drugs not meant for pain.  However, there are some natural foods that alleviates pain, unknown to you, some of the are already in your kitchen.   The common ones include:

1.  Fresh ginger
2.  Cayenne pepper
3.  Garlic
4.  Tumeric powder
5.  Cinnamon
6.  Moringa leaves
7.  Fresh pinneaple juice
8.  Noni tea
9.  Green vegetables
10  Mistletoe tea
11. Honey

These are common in most kitchen and many more that are lurking in your kitchen capable of killing those pains without your knowing.

Get closer to nature, natural foods are best for you.

Read More

Natural Foods that Heal Stomach ulcers

Heal Your Stomach Ulcers Naturally

Stomach ulcers  sounds frightening?  Yes, because many are confused about its origin, cure and management.  Some years ago, we were advised to take plenty of milk, in order to alleviate  the pain of stomach ulcers and were told by ignorant men and women that milk will take care of the ulcer.  But now we know better.  Though milk may provide symptomatic relief at the onset of the pain or discomfort.  If you think you have a painful or disturbing feeling in your stomach and ulcer is either suspected or  confirmed.  Then there are foods that you must immediately take out of your list.  Such as caffeine, alcohol, hot and spicy foods.

It is best to avoid all carbonated beverages,  and embrace foods that will give you true and lasting healing.  For the avoidance of doubt here are some foods you should begin to consume:

1.  Cabbage and carrot juice
2.  Fresh vegetables
3.  Include cayenne peppers or Bell peppers in your cookings
4.  Boiled sweet potatoes in moderation
5.  Fresh coconut and coconut oil
6.  Beans especially black-eye cowpea
7.  Plenty of water especially in the morning (water therapy)
8.  Boiled egg (chicken egg)
9.  Include garlic in your cookings
10. Fermented foods like yoghurt, cassava flour,  millet, iru, ogiri etc
11.  Natural honey
12.  Ripe bananas
13.  Red palm oil for most of your cooking
The last but not the least.  Avoid extreme stress.

Read More

Sweet Corn is Nutritious

Sweet Corn is Nutritious.  You can go ahead and enjoy it with numerous health benefits.  Do not forget however that it can add you up fast.  Though  with fibre, it is also an energy food with simple sugars.  It is in season now and you know seasonal foods are best for us.  Go ahead and enjoy your  corn whether yellow or white, roasted or boiled whichever you prefer.  I recommend it with beans or nuts.  Whether coconut or peanut.  They are the most common in the market.

Sweet corn is definitely not an everyday food if you are conscious of your blood sugar.  Remember there is a reason why It is available this season.   Enjoy it, but in moderation.  I prefer it boiled, with fresh coconut or peanut.

Read More

More Reasons to Change your view about Coconut

Coconut milk is the milky substance pressed out from a fresh coconut meat.   A mature coconut milk is bound to have more oil than a young coconut.   Many have erroneous belief about  coconut milk and that is the fact that it is full of fat and oil,   but surpringly, the  saturated fat that go along with this milk  is one that is rare in nature.  Meaning, it is not the bad or man made fat manipulated for profit making, helping to prolong the shelf life of most common oils termed as ' healthy'

Coconut could be expressed using special gadgets for it or you just chew the  fresh coconut with the milk.  It has numerous health benefits.  The oil found in the milk contains disease fighting agents which your body converts into special soldiers to fight all kinds of infections internally.  So if you are always battling with infections especially intestinal bacterial,  than you must incorporate the healthy food into your diet.

If you suffer stomach ulcer,  then incorporate this food into your diet.

If you suffer low energy.  Then do not forget this natural gift from God to us.

Another good news is that it does not make you fat as previous preached.

Read More

9 Healthy Foods That May Be Unhealthy During Pregnancy

Pregnancy in women is usually a period of  joy  that requires great care especially in the area of nutrition.   As  a result of great changes arising from hormones, the woman's nutritional requirement is also affected, prescription supplements in the form of iron and folic acid are usually given to boost blood production, lessons are given during antenatal visits in some care centres on foods to eat.   While attention is usually focused on what to eat, less is usually discussed on what foods to avoid.  Women during their first trimester are usually at risk of complications should any error occur either nutritionally or otherwise.  The first timers i.e those carrying their first pregnancy are usually confused on what to avoid at this critical time, especially in the face of many advisers.  I have heard cases of women insisting that they were advised by friends to consume garlic.  Yes,  garlic is a  supper food, good for almost everything, ranging from inflammations, bacteria infection, yeast infection, constipation and many more, but definitely not for pregnancy.   Here are 9 healthy foods that may be unhealthy during Pregnancy

Garlic:  Garlic is a supper food noted for its numerous health benefits,  It is an ante fungal and an immune boosting food.  It is one food recommended to be included daily in our diet without side effect.  One point to note however about garlic is that it is a blood thinner and this makes a food to be avoided especially in its raw state during pregnancy more importantly during the first trimester. Being a blood thinner, could actually lead to unexpected bleeding at the early stage of pregnancy.

2. Unripe pawpaw:   Did you know? that though unripe pawpaw is an enjoyable delight yet has high content of  latex which can cause uterine contraction and may lead to spontaneous abortion.  Unripe or partially ripe pawpaw are great especially in the hot summer, however if you are aiming to be pregnant or in your first trimester, then better to avoid it.

3. Teas and Coffee:  These all contain caffeine which may be harmful  to the unborn child.  According to Natural On post on the subject, "over consumption of caffeine can lead to miscarriage or low birth weight"  It can also lead to dehydration.  Chocolate or dark cocoa should also be reserved for the delicacy after birth due to its content of caffeine, other teas include black and green teas.  Caffeine can cross the placenta and cause problems for the unborn child.

Read More

DID YOU KNOW?

that Onions are noted for their easily assimilable iron content? They are, therefore, beneficial in the treatment of anaemia. Latest researches of Russian doctors have further confirmed the bactericidal properties of onion. According to these findings if a person consumes one raw onion every day by thorough mastication, he will be protected from a host of tooth disorders. Toothache is often allayed by placing a small piece of onion on the bad tooth or gum.

Read More

8 Reasons to keep Cinnamon Powder in Your Kitchen

If you are in the habit of just consuming only known foods and never try a new one, then you are definitely not on the part of health, your body needs variety, your body needs some new foods from time to time.

Cinnamon powder is not known to many Nigerians, but if you are over 40yrs. Then its time to monitor the following and watch what you eat:


1. High Cholesterol (bad fat)
2. Excess body weight
3. Excess sugar leading to Diabetes
4. Blood cloth
5. High Blood Pressure
6. Stomach Ulcers
7. Poor blood circulation
8. Arthritis and other Inflammatory diseases


HOW DOES CINNAMON COME IN HERE?

Cinnamon powder is an inexpensive spice available in our markets, many are not aware that this singular spice can actually save your life, Cinnamon is beneficial in all the 8 points
mentioned above.

I have personally tried incorporating cinnamon powder into my regular diet, its working, in what ways:

In all the 8 points mentioned specifically:

1.  Constipation:

In cases of explainable indigestion, constipation or whatever, I have found Cinnamon Powder to the Rescue


2.      For Managing High Cholesterol:

Cinnamon powder is also beneficial. By the Many Nigerians over 40yrs are not even aware of their cholesterol status, High Cholesterol is not a disease, so its good to know your status and take steps nutritionally to avert crisis, many have, slumped and given up the ghost not because it was time but, because, they had symptoms, they had warnings, but neglected it. It is well, It is well is our usual confession. It will definitely be well,

3.    Guard Against Diabetes:

 It is difficult at later age in life to keep away permanently from , certain foods that we love, such foods like rice.  Why?  because,of because we must watch against diabetes, however cinnamon powder comes to the rescue when you consider that it will not only enhance the taste of your meal, but help with sugar response.

4.  As  a blood thinner: 

It helps keep our blood as liquid as possible in order to help avoid some diseases associated with your blood being thick.  When people suffer stroke, blood thinners are often given to them to avoid a re occurrence, however, if you are already on medication, it is well to stay with your medication, if you are however approaching those delicate years, prevention we know is better than cure.

5.  High Blood Pressure

Cinnamon powder is definitely not a cure, rather it is used as a preventive natural remedy.  During those sensitive years, when blood pressure is prone to arise too frequently even with little provocation,  it is necessary that we include foods like cinnamon powder as a taste enhancer due to the positive effect it will have on the blood pressure.

6.  Stomach Ulcers:

Unknown to many, they have ulcers in their stomach.  When carbonated beverages are consumed too frequently, these ulcers get worse.  Foods like white bread, sugar, unhealthy fats, prevents the ulcers from healing.  However, if spices like cinnamon powder is consumed regularly, these ulcers get healed unknown to us as well.

7.  Poor Blood Circulation:

The benefits of good circulation to the health of all cannot be over emphasized.  Spices as this are helpful in ensuring that blood circulates to all organs of the   body,  this helps boost immune system.

8.  Anti Inflammatory Benefits:

Inflammations is now known to be the cause of many diseases including arthritis.  Where it is not the direct cause, it makes it worse.  this medicinal food is anti inflammatory naturally and this makes it beneficial as an immune booster which helps fight many diseases including inflammatory diseases like arthritis.

  

Summary:  

Remember that moderation is the key,  you can also mix the powder in hot water and add honey to keep cold away. Remember however that moderation is the key.  Consuming large quantities of cinnamon powder regular without supervision will definitely give a counter effect.

• but paying attention to your health especially what you eat, will make
• it well.definitely make it well.

Read More

Gluten Free Foods to include in Your Food List This Season

What is Gluten?

Not until recently I never knew or heard of the word gluten, a deeper walk into the world of nutrition, introduced gluten to me.  Gluten is actually  a rare form of protein found mostly in wheat endosperm.   What makes gluten worth noting is its usually unnoticed negative effects on the health of some individuals, over time. Below are 19 foods that are gluten free to include in your diet this season.

1.  Bananas:

Bananas are usually found in their natural form and is among top gluten free foods to look for especially if you have irritable gut.  They possess uncommon carbs known as disaccharides which usually provide a quick form of energy.  They are good  if you are walking out or just back from a long walk and need quick replenishment of electrolyte and energy.  It is easily digestible and low in sodium, calming the stomach if troubled.  It is rich  in important minerals, and vitamins especially those of the B group.

2.  Egg.

  Eggs, especially Chicken eggs are nutrient dense and surprisingly, its gluten free too.  Its loaded with important nutrients, like vitamins A, D, K and E .  It is low in calorie despite its nutrient density.  It is a source of protein too and helps you meet your body's nutrient requirement for the day without gluten.

3.  Milk:

Another delicious but controversial food is milk.  Though it is difficult to rank today's milk as a totally natural food as we usually advocate, but it is almost practically impossible to have it 100% natural especially in today's toxic environment, it incidentally ranked among the gluten free foods.  Some  prefer goat's milk, which is not as available as the common cow's milk.  but whichever, milk is another nutrient dense food that is gluten free.  It is a food we begin eaten from childhood  and even at the evening of our lives when our digestion and teeth are no longer taking all that we desire to eat.  Milk is one food that the elderly still admits, though in reduced quantity.  They desire it daily, as it contains most nutrients like calcium, magnesium, zinc and other vitamins needed at old age.

4. Millet 

Millet is another common food rich in fibre but easily digestible and yet gluten free.  With celiac disease, you get to enjoy this delicacy more often. It is rich in B vitamins and other antioxidants which help build a healthy body.  If you ferment your millet, It will also aid its digestion and serve as probiotics as well as  helping strengthen the gut.

Read More

HERE ARE 10 MORE REASONS TO INCLUDE FERMENTED CASSAVA FLOUR (IJEBU GARRI) IN YOUR DIET

1.     

      1.  Easily  Digestible

When you consider the benefits of regular consumption of foods that are easily digestible, you will agree that cassava flour places no stress on the gut.  Why, obviously, due to the absence of fats and oils.  Ijebu Garri as it is popularly called delivers quality energy without unnecessary strain on the gut.  I believe , this is a plus for Ijebu garri.

       

    2. Gluten-Free:  Before now many are not aware of the dangers of gluten rich grains like wheat on the gut, so many opt  for wheat when  a low fat diet is recommended especially for diabetics.  According to Wikipedia, Gluten  is a composite of storage proteins termed prolacmins  and glutelins found in wheat and related grains (Wikipedia)

Wheat is a prime source of gluten.  Gluten-related disorders is the  umbrella term for all diseases triggered by gluten which include celiac disease, wheat allergy, gluten ataxia and dermatitis.  The good news about cassava flour (garri) is that iti is among the few starchy foods that are completely free of gluten.

  

3.  Non-gas producing:  If you suffer gastritis or looking for food that will not produce gas in your gut.  Then, you will have to include or incorporate Ijebu garri into your diet.  Most times that people suffer gas,  they quickly go for medication without first considering what kind of food they consume that could have been responsible.  If the stomach is made to constantly produce gas, then we must check our nutrition and diet including life-style for this is definitely not healthy for the gut.

4. Heals the Gut:  Many a time, we sustain injuries in the stomach due to either stress or wrong food combinations or even poor diet.  At such times, the stomach needs some break to allow it heal, however in observing the break, we still need a little energy to keep the body moving until the stomach heals. 

Fermented garri  (Ijebu garri) is highly valuable at such a time.  Many are confused on what to eat at such times due to ignorance, some resort to bread, biscuits unknown to them, they are adding salt to the injuries because these foods are highly acidic, and cannot help the gut heal.

5. Good Remedy for Diarrhea:  If you suddenly notice that your stomach is out of control and you have had  to pass stool more frequently, pls take time to rest and just start chewing on Ijebu garri in very small amount and within 24 hrs you will notice calmness in your gut, I 

have personally experienced and tasted this aspect, using fermented garri from my garden and believe it, it worked for me.  However, if your symptom persists,  you will definitely need a competent physician to examine you.  It is  naturally home Remedy to control diarrhea.

 6. Helps the body produce Acetycholine:  According to Oh-Lardy .com.  Fermentation helps  the  body produce Acetycholine, this is a neurotransmitter of nerve impulse, within the context of digestion, it helps increase the movement of the bowel and can help reduce constipation.  It also helps improve the release of digestive juices and enzymes from the stomach, the pancreas and the gallbladder.  By helping your body produce acetylcholine, fermented foods act as potent digestive aids.

7.   Good For Diabetics.  Fermented garri could be mixed with a dried soya to improve the protein quality for diabetics or consumed with protein rich soup to make it balanced.  I have personally observed that if you wake up at night and must take something to calm your stomach from hunger, a tablespoon of garri with a little honey in cold water settles the hunger pang and puts you back to sleep without stress or gas until dawn.

8. A source of probiotics:  All fermented foods must have gone through one form of bacteria activity or the other. The fermentation adds more nutrients in the form of beneficial bacteria.  Fermented cassava flour is not an exception.

9.  A natural energy source with no fat and oil:  If cassava flour is processed without the addition of red palm oil to give you the yellow garri version, you will actually get a high fibre energy food without fat and oil.  When the immune system is suppressed, the body finds it difficult to deal with fats especially the  unhealthy fats, this low fat natural flour is a food to seek after at such a time.  What many call yellow garri is actually produced by the addition of red palm oil to the grated cassava either before frying or before the fermentation.  Few drops of oil are added. Several persons have asked me why I prefer the white version of this flour. and my response is simple, "I am mindful of calorie"  So if you are aiming to cut calorie, definitely the yellow garri is not the best option.  For persons over 45yrs, definitely calorie should count.  More active people will definitely prefer the yellow garri.

I however maintain  that since you have the red oil in your soup, what then is the use of adding oil again to the garri to increase the calorie.  Red palm oil is a source of palmitic acid and other fats which may not be friendly with our arteries.

10. Fermentation increases the Nutrients quality:

Definitely, this is one of the known benefits of fermentation and this root vegetable is not an exception.  Knowing that garri is not a high protein food, it is best however to ensure the addition of other proteins in other to improve its protein content.

Summary

The main challenge today in having access to fermented cassava flour is poor awareness.  People need education on the benefits of fermentation.  Also ensure to get well fermented cassava flour from a trusted source.  So many are eager to make sales and get money and may not be patient to allow fermentation  as this may delay production.  Poor processing also leaves stones, particles and other unwanted pebbles in the flour which are not desirable.

Moderation should however be the key, too much consumption of this flour without protein to balance it may suppress the immune system.

 
Widipedia

draxe.com

Oh-Lardy.com

Read More

HEALTH BENEFITS OF FERMENTED CASSAVA FLOUR (ijebu Garri)

INTRODUCTION

What  do we mean by the word ‘FERMENTED’ It actually comes from the word “Ferment”  which is simply a process of keeping some natural foods  over some nights either for a night, two nights or several days and nights as the case may be in order to allow bacterial act on them. 

Fermentation of foods is an ancient way practiced several years ago by our ancestors with the intention of preserving those foods to stay longer.  Various cultures and nations of the world have different fermentation types and methods common with them.  However in Nigeria and most west African countries, fermentation of grains such as corn, millet, sorghum appears to be more popular. 

Although our ancestors and grand parents practised  fermentation a great deal, yet due to the absence of scientific research and education, most of them were not very much aware of the huge benefits derived from the practice.  Most of them lived to riped age without suffering some of the degenerating diseases common with us today.  Today, it is now becoming clearer as events unfold that though they had no refrigerators, micro wave ovens, deep freezers and the like as we do today, the absence of these scientific gadgets may have  actually been instrumental to their longevity.

I have written earlier on the benefits of fermentation.  However, in this subject, I am focusing on the benefits of fermented cassava flour (Garri Ijebu) which is a popular staple among Nigerians and some west African countries.  

Garri as it is popularly called  was being relegated to the background, until recently when Foundations such as this began awareness creation on  such subjects and health benefits of our traditional diets like fermented garri.  We are encouraged to return to our traditional recipes like fermented foods.

It is made by harvesting, grating , fermenting and drying the fibrous cassava root, or frying it after days of fermentation to produce a fine grain that can easily be soaked and drunk in cold water or prepared with hot water to get your swallow (Eba)

It is a handy snack for quick energy that can be chewed or carried about in case you wish to stay away from other white flours or pastas, noodles or biscuits.  It is lower in calorie after the fermentation and frying.  It is also low in sodium. 

Specifically, the regime of Obasanjo during his tenure encouraged the use of cassava  by manufacturers in productions  such as bread, many resisted it, kicked against including my humble self, but I believe most of us were ignorant,  but now we know better, and would rather encourage bakers to go back.  If you have ever managed a diabetic patient  from the standpoint of nutrition, you will agree with me that fermented cassava flour is far superior  to white bread or flour in terms of glycemic response and sugar control.  When it comes to diabetes, especially when taken in moderation  with either nut or dried fish in moderation and occasionally in its well fermented state, you will agree with me that its more reliable than white bread or other carbs like yam.

If you are looking for a gluten-free food rich in energy and fibre without fats and oils, then look no further. 

 Click Here To Read 10 more reasons to include fermented cassava flour (Ijebu Garri) in your family menu

Read More

HEALTH BENEFITS OF TUMERIC POWDER WITH MILK AND HONEY

Tumeric belongs to the family of ginger and can be found in our local markets. Surprisingly, many  people do not know what it is or how they can incorporate it into their diet. Walking around the market, I noticed that the fresh tumeric are not popular as ginger. Even the sellers of the tumeric do not know its health benefits  Its my latest spice in almost all my dishes; it brings out the natural taste in all my meals

Tumeric is a wonderful medicinal spice which can be used in several ways such as listed below but not limited to the 3 ways mentioned here.

      

• :    You can use Tumeric in your cooking as a spice to bring out the taste
• 2.    You can take it with milk to boost immune system and ward off  cold and cough  
•       You can massage fresh grated tumeric on  your palm to keep your body warm if for any reason you do not want to consume tumeric.

Here Are 9 More Reasons to include Tumeric Powder into Your Diet

.

1.       RELIEF FROM COLD AND COUGH. Taking  a cup of tumeric powder in hot water and a little honey is something you need to try. Variety is the spice of life.  Majority of us are used to drinking Black Tea or Green Tea.  Others opt for coffee. Yes, these are anti-oxidant drinks to start your day. However, I have tried tumeric powder with milk and honey as a drink in the morning.  its great .One outstanding difference between tumeric and milk with honey drink with the others above is that they all contain caffeine in varying amounts.  It is naturally caffeine-free and energizing due to its rich content of  beneficial anti oxidants without the caffeine.  It helps keep the body heated up, so as to keep cold and cough away especially during the rainy season.     

f
f    ITS LIVER FRIENDLY:  Tumeric is a liver friendly spice just like most spices.  It helps increase the flow of bile which helps in the metabolism of fats and oils, in  this way, it  helps the liver do its work. It also helps remove excess fats from the liver.

     
3   3.  BEAUTIFIES THE SKIN:  If you are looking for a food or spice that makes your skin lighter, brighter and youthful, then go no further.  Tumeric powder with milk and honey drink is a recipe for this.  I have talked with many persons who suffers from high blood pressure, and there is something common with their response before the onset of the disease, and that is, that they seldom drink tea do not drink anything at all.  Some complain of the caffeine in coffee and black teas.  If that is the case, then tumeric powder with milk and honey will make a good drink without the caffeine.  Besides, it makes the skin beautiful with the presence of honey and milk, You will notice a glowing skin.

      4.  WORKS AGAINST INSOMNIA:  When tumeric powder is mixed with milk and honey in the evening towards bedtime, then you have got a good tonic for uninterrupted sleep all through the night.  If you suffer insomnia, then it will be worth trying this drink at bedtime
    
      5.  PAIN RELIEF:  If you suffer any kind of pain, whether rheumatic or arthritis pain especially at night.  Taking a cup of tumeric power with only honey may offer some relief.  In some cases, I have had to massage using tumeric powder and other carrier oils like coconut  oil or even shea butter externally and relief is often experienced few minutes later.  Even the use of fresh tumeric root is equally effective where the powder is not available.  Tumeric root offers relief as well.

     6.  RELIEF FROM HEADACHE:  This may sound strange but, at the onset or sign of headache, of course, I have advised some clients to stay away from certain foods at the first sign of headache.  Foods such as nuts including coconut, peanut and fried foods should be avoided immediately.  However one food that should be embraced at such a time is tumeric.  It is good in circulation, rich in nutrients that heats up the body, destroying yeasts and other agents that encourage poor circulation which makes the headache worse.  Tumeric with honey drink is a good drink at such a time.

     7.  IMMUNE BOOSTING BENEFIT:  A Drink of tumeric powder with milk and honey is good way to boost the immune system at such times when you feel low, when the body's ability to digest fats and oils are low, at such times when we feel sluggish, or loss of appetite.  A good way to give our body a boost is to prepare this drink and find time to relax.  Apart from offering a good sleep which in itself is medicine, it will reduce inflammations as well,    the reason for this benefits is the anti inflammatory effect of tumeric and honey working together.

     8.  WORKS AS BLOOD PURIFIER:    Tumeric and  honey drink works as blood purifier as well, helping remove  impurities from the blood stream.  It is not surprising that tumeric has this ability when you consider that its cousin ginger is great for cleaning the arteries and blood as well.  If you are looking for a spice rich in anti oxidants that can help alkaline your blood by removing impurities from the blood, then tumeric is a wonderful spice to go for.  You can also use fresh grated version from the tumeric root as tea in the morning with honey to clean your blood vessels naturally

     9.  ANTI-CANCER PROPERTIES: Tumeric is rich in anti cancer properties, It is anti inflammatory, anti fungal, anti viral, and antibacterial properties with no saturated fats and oil making it capable of starving cancer and other agents that feed cancer.  Its my latest spice that brings out the taste in all my dishes.


   SUMMARY

     Tumeric is available as a spice for your dishes and  as a drink.  Tumeric is also available in the market in its fresh version  and affordable too.  However, if you are on medication, it is  important to consult your doctor before taking tumeric as tea.
 

   

     

 



 

   




   
\ 

      

b

i

b

Read More