Fufu is a dough-like food made from fresh or fermented cassava and it is an essential food across African countries.
It’s eaten majorly across West Africa, in Nigeria, Ghana, Benin, Sierra Leone, Togo, Cameroon, and more. It pairs well with most soups such as egusi, okra soup, tomato stew, and more.
Fufu is also known as akpu can be made out of any of the starchy ground provisions like cassava, plantains, or malanga.
This is not chewed but swallowed in small oval balls molded in the palm of the hand and dipped in a bowl of appropriate soup, subject to the preference of the diner.
Experts say that a 347.8-gram portion of fufu furnishes the body with 364.40 kcal of energy. In this article, we will discuss the health benefits of eating fufu.
1. Rich in Fiber
The fiber in fufu helps in normalizing bowel movements by increasing the weight and size of your stool and softening it while it also reduces the risk of colorectal cancer.
Fiber-rich foods go a long way in improving the digestive system and overall health.
Studies reveal that fiber-dense foods like akpu are capable of lowering the total levels of blood cholesterol simply by reducing ‘bad’ lowering low-density lipoprotein in the body.
2. Low in Fat
When you consume too many trans fats or saturated fats, you are gradually exposing yourself to certain health conditions, including heart problems, Type 2 diabetes, obesity, strokes, and high blood pressure. One of the best ways to prevent such is to eat low-fat foods like fufu.
Fufu is gluten-free. People with non-celiac gluten sensitivity and celiac disease can take it without experiencing any adverse effects.
3. Rich in Potassium
Fufu contains a good amount of potassium, one of the essential macrominerals the body relies on for proper functioning.
Potassium helps regulate your heartbeat and promotes normal muscle function. Potassium-rich foods are said to be effective for reducing the risk of stroke, high blood pressure, and other cardiovascular diseases.