Although it may sound like one, tiger nut is not a nut but a type of tuber. This sweet-tasting crop has gained popularity as a health food and can be consumed either raw or cooked. Tiger nuts can also be turned into milk, which serves as a dairy-free alternative, and used for baking.
Tiger nuts offer several health benefits, which include the following:
Anti-aging properties: Tiger nuts are an excellent source of antioxidants, which can help prevent or slow down cell damage caused by unstable molecules called free radicals.
Improved digestion: Due to their high fiber content, tiger nuts can help with digestion by increasing stool frequency and relieving constipation.
Blood sugar regulation: Tiger nuts may help regulate blood sugar levels due to their high fiber content, which can slow down the absorption of sugar in the gut.
Appetite suppression: Studies suggest that tiger nuts may act as a mild appetite suppressant, making us feel fuller for longer and reducing the number of calories absorbed from food.
Immune system boost: Tiger nut extracts have been found to be effective against several bacterial infections, including E. coli, Staphylococcus, and Salmonella. Further studies are needed to determine the extent of their effectiveness against antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
Improved sexual function: Tiger nuts have been shown to increase sperm count and motility and may also boost sex drive and libido in individuals, according to Dr. Gabriel Ogah, a medical director and consultant urologist at the Ogah Hospital and Urology Centre in Fugar, Edo State.