Agbalumo, also known as the African Star Apple, is a fruit that is widely enjoyed across Nigeria. It is popular not just for its enticing sweetness but also for its many health benefits. This tropical fruit, native to West Africa, ripens during the dry harmattan season, and is usually available from December to April every…
Folic acid is the synthetic form of folate or Vitamin B9 that is found in certain foods. It is also sold separately as a supplement for those who need it, like pregnant women or those who have a Vitamin B9 deficiency. Because of how essential it is, Vitamin B9 has been added to a range…
Catfish, scientifically known as Siluriformes, are a diverse group of ray-finned fish, which be found on all continents, except Antarctica. There are over 3000 species of catfish found in freshwater settings like rivers and streams. However, some species have evolved to live in saltwater and caverns. Catfish has been used to prepare delicacies such as catfish…
Zinc is a mineral that plays an important role in the body. It helps boost the immune system, enhances healing, promotes the production of proteins and DNA, as well as many other vital bodily functions. Unfortunately, the human body is unable to store zinc, so you have to make sure you consume enough zinc in…
It is commonly known that most Nigerian foods are cooked with oil, from soups to stews to different rice varieties. It is just that the oil differs. Traditional Nigerian cuisine is rich in flavors and nutrients, but the use of oils can add unnecessary calories and unhealthy fats that may contribute to various health issues,…
Fura da nono is one of the many popular local drinks we have in Nigeria. The drink comes from the northern part of the country, although today it is enjoyed in every corner of the country and even beyond. Fura da nono is a local type of gruel made from millet balls (fura) and cow…
Foods that are rich in protein are regarded as body building foods. This is because protein contains the very properties or chemicals that ‘build’ the body, or allow the body to grow. Protein also helps with the repair and replacement of tissues in the body. In addition, a diet rich in protein can help you…
Digitaria exilis is a tiny variety of millet of the grass species that is cultivated in many parts of African. In Nigeria, it is known as acha or fonio and is widely eaten there. The Gambians refer to it as ‘findi‘ or ‘fundi.’ However, the common names of the plant are white fonio, fonio millet, and…
Thinking of having a change of diet? Try going vegan. Although the vegan diet has been around for quite some time now, its popularity has increased in recent years as people look for more ways to eat healthily. The ideal vegan diet consists of plant-based foods with nothing from animals. This includes meat and by-products…
Bitter kola, scientifically known as Garcinia Kola is a “bitter” fruit commonly consumed in some West African countries. Different tribes have different names for Bitter Kola in Nigeria; “Orogbo” in Yoruba, “Miji-goro” in Hausa and “Akiilu” in Igbo. This detailed articles aims at explaining the uses, nutritional properties and health benefits of bitter kola. [1]…
