Sugar has become an increasingly concerning aspect of the modern diet, with numerous studies linking high sugar consumption to various health issues such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease.
Unfortunately, many processed foods and drinks contain high levels of added sugars, making it challenging for individuals to regulate their intake.
However, there are still many Nigerian foods that are delicious and satisfying while also being low or free of added sugars. In this article, we will explore some of the best Nigerian foods that don’t contain added sugars.
Before we delve into these foods, let us first look at why people should be mindful of their sugar intake.Â
Consuming too much sugar has been linked to several health problems, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease.Â
Sugar is also known to contribute to inflammation in the body, which can lead to various other health issues.Â
Moreover, sugar is known to have addictive properties, and it can be challenging to reduce sugar intake once it becomes a habit.
Now let us look at some Nigerian foods that do not contain added sugars:
1. Okra Soup
Okro soup is a delicious Nigerian dish made with okra, onions, tomatoes, and various other spices. It is low in calories and sugar-free, making it a great option for those looking to maintain a healthy diet or avoid sugar.
2. Jollof Rice
This classic Nigerian dish is a staple in many households. It is made with rice, tomatoes, onions, and spices and is a great source of carbohydrates and essential nutrients.
Jollof rice is low in sugar because rice has no sugar content.
3. Efo Riro
Another popular Nigerian soup, efo riro, is made with a variety of vegetables, such as spinach and pumpkin leaves, and can be enjoyed with rice, yam, or other starchy foods. It is extremely low in sugar.
4. Moi Moi
Moi Moi is widely consumed Nigerian food made from ground beans, peppers, and spices. It is high in protein, low in sugar, and can be enjoyed as a snack or side dish.
5. Egusi Soup
This is a popular Nigerian soup made with melon seeds and various spices. It is a low sugar soup, that is also a great source of healthy fats, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals.
6. Sardines
Sardines are a type of small, oily fish that are commonly consumed in Nigeria. They are typically sold in canned form and are a popular ingredient in Nigerian cuisine. They can be used in a variety of dishes, including stews, soups, and sauces.
Sardines are known to be one of the Nigerian foods that contain no added sugar. Unlike many processed foods and beverages that often contain added sugars, sardines are a natural source of protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients.
7. Pepper Soup
This is a popular Nigerian soup made with a variety of meats, such as goat or chicken, and spices. It is low in calories and sugar-free, making it a great option for those looking to maintain a healthy diet.
8. Grilled chicken or fish
Grilled chicken or fish is a great source of protein and healthy fats. It is low in calories and sugar-free, making it a great option for those looking to maintain a healthy diet.
9. Peppered snails
Peppered snails are a popular Nigerian dish made from land snails, typically cooked with a spicy pepper sauce. As snails are a source of protein, peppered snails are a good option for those looking for a low-sugar meal, as snails do not contain any significant amount of sugar.
10. Suya
This is a popular Nigerian street food made from grilled meat and spices. Suya is a great source of protein and can be enjoyed as a healthy snack or side dish.
Other Nigerian foods that don’t contain sugar include, fried rice, cat fish, goat meat, pork meat, okpa, akara, and onugbu soup.
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Collins Nwokolo is a human physiologist, writer and health enthusiast. He loves writing helpful articles on health and fitness, which he enjoys sharing with everyone.
