Akpu is a dense Nigerian food made from cassava tubers or plantain flour and is also known as Fufu. It is typically enjoyed with traditional soups like bitterleaf soup, groundnut soup, egusi soup, ora, and vegetable soup......Read The Full Article>>.....Read The Full Article>>
Akpu is rich in essential nutrients, including carbohydrates, dietary fibre, protein, calcium, iron, and a significant amount of potassium. In a 100g serving, it contains 267 calories.
Cassava fufu, commonly known as “Akpu”, is created through a process of fermenting freshly harvested cassava tubers in open containers filled with water for 3 days. However, this traditional method, involving mixed-culture fermentation, often results in an unpleasant odour. Consequently, the consumption of kapu made in this manner is predominantly limited to rural areas.
Lafun, also known as white Amala, is a Nigerian swallow made from cassava flour. It is typically paired with soups such as Ewedu, Okro Soup, and various other delicious Nigerian soup varieties.
Fufu is commonly served by dipping it into sauces or enjoying it with meat, fish, or vegetable stews. It is believed to have originated in Ghana, where it is considered a staple food.
Research has indicated that carbohydrate-based diets can result in 2-3 times more weight loss compared to low-fat diets. Traditional starchy foods like Eba, Akpu, and Fufu are indeed rich in carbs, which can contribute to belly fat. However, consuming them in moderation (small servings) can assist in achieving weight loss goals.
Akpu has many benefits that make it super healthy and essential for the body.
Check below for some of these benefits:
Akpu is a great source of carbohydrates, which are essential for daily bodily functions. Carbohydrate deficiency can lead to health issues like fatigue, weakness, reduced concentration, and nausea. Akpu, being high in carbs, provides energy and supports the brain, heart, muscles, and nervous system.
Cholesterol is a soft, waxy substance found in human cells and the bloodstream. There are two main types: High-density lipoprotein (HDL) is considered “good cholesterol” as it removes cholesterol from artery walls without side effects. Low-density lipoprotein (LDL), known as “bad cholesterol”, accumulates cholesterol in artery walls, leading to plaque buildup, narrowed blood vessels, and a higher risk of heart diseases like stroke or heart attack.
Thankfully, consuming low-cholesterol foods like Akpu can help manage cholesterol levels and protect against heart diseases. You can also explore other Nigerian foods with low cholesterol.
Akpu is a good source of potassium, a vital macromineral necessary for proper body function. Potassium-rich foods can help lower the risk of stroke, high blood pressure, and cardiovascular diseases.
Additionally, the potassium in Akpu helps regulate fluid balance, enhances bone density, reduces kidney stone formation, lowers the risk of muscle loss, and offers various other advantages.
Akpu is one of the Nigerian foods rich in fibre, which is great for your digestive system and overall health.
Firstly, the fibre in Akpu normalizes bowel movements by increasing stool size and softening it, reducing the risk of colorectal cancer.
Moreover, research shows that fibre-rich foods like Akpu can lower overall blood cholesterol levels by reducing “bad” LDL cholesterol.
Additionally, high-fiber foods often make you feel full for longer, preventing you from consuming extra calories that could lead to weight gain.
Consuming excessive trans fats and saturated fats can increase your risk of health issues like heart problems, Type 2 diabetes, obesity, strokes, and high blood pressure. To prevent these conditions, it’s wise to include low-fat foods in your diet, such as Akpu.
Furthermore, it’s worth noting that Akpu is gluten-free, making it a suitable choice for individuals with non-celiac gluten sensitivity and celiac disease, as it won’t cause any adverse effects.
