Gut Health: 4 Probiotic Nigerian Foods to Include in Your Diet

 

Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are essential for gut health. They help balance the bacteria in your digestive system, improve digestion, and boost immunity.

While probiotic supplements are popular, many traditional Nigerian foods are naturally rich in probiotics and can be easily incorporated into your daily diet.

Here are 4 probiotic-rich Nigerian foods you should consider adding to your meals.

1. Ogi (Fermented Corn Porridge): Ogi, also known as pap, is a fermented porridge made from corn, millet, or sorghum. It is a popular breakfast food in Nigeria, often served with akara (bean cakes) or moin moin (steamed bean pudding). The fermentation process involved in making ogi allows beneficial bacteria to thrive, making it an excellent source of probiotics.

This creamy, slightly sour porridge is not only great for your digestive system but also easy to digest, making it suitable for infants, the elderly, and anyone with digestive sensitivities. Adding ogi to your diet can help maintain a healthy gut, improve digestion, and boost your immune system.

2. Ugba (Fermented Oil Bean): Ugba is a traditional Nigerian dish made from fermented African oil beans. It is commonly eaten in the southeastern parts of Nigeria, often used in dishes like African salad (Abacha) or served with roasted yam or plantains. The fermentation of oil beans introduces a wealth of probiotics that aid in digestion and promote a healthy balance of gut bacteria.

In addition to being a probiotic food, ugba is packed with nutrients like proteins, essential amino acids, and antioxidants. Adding ugba into your meals can improve your gut health while adding a delicious, savoury element to your dishes.

3.  Fufu (Fermented Cassava Dough): Fufu is a staple in many Nigerian households, typically made from fermented cassava, yams, or plantains. The fermentation process that cassava undergoes to become fufu is rich in probiotics. Whether you enjoy it with soups like egusi, ogbono, or vegetable soup, fufu provides your gut with beneficial bacteria that aid digestion. Besides its probiotic content, fufu is a filling meal that provides a great source of carbohydrates, keeping you energized throughout the day. 

4. Kunu (Fermented Millet Drink): Kunu is a traditional Nigerian drink made from fermented millet, sorghum, or maize. This refreshing beverage is popular in the northern part of Nigeria and is known for its slightly sweet and tangy flavour. The fermentation process makes kunu an excellent source of probiotics, which help in promoting gut health and boosting your immune system.

Adding these probiotic-rich Nigerian foods to your diet is a simple and natural way to support your digestive health.

Not only are these foods packed with beneficial bacteria, but they are also full of flavour, ensuring that healthy eating is enjoyable.