The tiger nut, also known as the ‘underground walnut’, is a little wonder that packs a big punch when it comes to health benefits, says nutritionist Lovneet Batra as she explains its health benefits.
Great source of fibre: Tiger nuts are high in insoluble fibre, which passes through your gut without being digested. Insoluble fibre helps improve bowel movements and reduce likelihood of constipation. They also help bring relief from gas, indigestion, and diarrhoea
Diabetes management: The protein in tiger nuts also contains a high proportion of the amino acid arginine, which may increase insulin production and sensitivity, both of which are important for blood sugar management. The insoluble fibre in these tubers helps control blood sugar levels, as it is a type of carbohydrate that doesn’t raise blood sugar.
Anti-bacterial properties: One initial study shows that tiger nut extracts (acetone, 50% ethanol, and chloroform and petroleum ether) have antibacterial properties. The study resulted in 50% ethanolic extract of the tubers showing maximum antibacterial activity against E.coli, St. aureus, and Salmonella spp
Cholesterol management: It helps in reduction of LDL (bad) cholesterol and increases HDL (good) cholesterol because of its high contents of oleic acid and Vitamin E, which has an antioxidant effect on fat.
Prebiotic: While tiger nuts help fight bad bacteria in your body. They also assist your digestive tract by acting as a ‘resistant starch’ prebiotic. Prebiotics function by serving as energy sources (as a fuel of sorts) for the positive gut bacteria that keep your entire digestive system running smoothly
Antioxidant rich: It’s important to have a diet rich in antioxidants to protect the human digestive system from oxidative damage over time, and tiger nuts are a great source of antioxidants. With high vitamin E content and oleic acid, these nuts help protect the body from diseases.
