Most people are familiar with the delicacy “ọkpa” without knowing the source. Ọkpa flour is made from Bambara nut, and it is scientifically called Cigna subterranean.
It is a legume grown in West African Countries.
Bambara nuts are nutrient-dense and loaded with lots of vitamins and minerals.
They help in improving blood glucose control, boosting immune health, improving bone health, as well as providing the body with minerals and vitamins.
Here are health benefits of bambara nuts.
1. Helps fight Malnutrition
Barbara groundnuts are good quality protein food, they provide more methionine (essential amino acid) than any other grain legumes.
The high protein content protects young children with kwashiorkor (protein deficiency).
The nuts also help with insomnia and chronic fatigue syndrome.
2. Cancer Prevention
Bambara nuts have the highest concentration of soluble fiber and antioxidants when compared with other legumes.
Soluble fiber is a micronutrient believed to reduce colon cancer and cardiovascular disease.
3. Improves bone health
Bambara nuts contain calcium and phosphorus which is essential for healthy and strong bones, especially among aged ones.
The nuts also contain lysine – an amino acid commonly found in beans and other protein foods. This amino acid helps the body to absorb more calcium and reduces the loss of calcium in the urine, thereby protecting bone health.
4. Boosts immune health
Barbara nuts contain antioxidants like vitamin C and iron which reduce the incidence of heart diseases, boost immunity, and help prevent cancer.
Antioxidants are known to protect the body from harmful food chemicals and toxins.
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