They’re not really nuts, but they ARE good for you, helping with digestion and blood sugar
They aren’t actually nuts. And the only thing they have in common with tigers is their stripes. But tiger nuts — and related products like tiger nut flour and milk — are finding their way into more kitchens…..CONTINUE READING
Also known as chufa nuts, Earth almonds and earthnuts, tiger nuts have been around for centuries. Some ancient Egyptians had tiger nuts in their tombs, presumably so they could enjoy them in the afterlife.
Today, more Americans are putting tiger nuts on their grocery shopping lists — and for good reasons. Registered dietitian Gillian Culbertson, RD, LD, calls tiger nuts a superfood. “They’re low in calories and packed with nutrients,” she says. Here’s what else you need to know about this rising food star.
Tiger nuts are tubers, or the bulbous root of a stem. They grow underground and provide nutrients to a grass-like plant called yellow nutsedge (Cyperus esculentus lativum), commonly found in Africa and Spain.
This ancient root has more in common with potatoes and yams than nuts. But tiger nuts are much smaller (about the size of a marble or, dare we say, a nut?) with stripes on the outside.
“Tiger nuts are extremely versatile. You can eat them raw, dried or cooked,” says Culbertson. “They have a sweet, nutty flavor similar to almonds.”
The tubers can be ground into flour, roasted for a snack or boiled and turned into milk or juice. Tiger nuts are the key ingredient in traditional Spanish horchata de chufa, a sweetened nut milk (although the more familiar Mexican horchata is made with rice).
A 1/4-cup, 1-ounce serving of tiger nuts (about 50 raw tubers) has approximately:
Scientists haven’t done many studies on the health benefits of tiger nuts. But the existing research suggests that consuming tiger nuts and tiger nut products may be good for you. Tiger nuts may provide:
Tiger nuts may be small, but they pack a powerful nutritional punch. The nuts are high in several minerals:
Tiger nuts are also a good source of these vitamins:
Like many plants, tiger nuts are rich in antioxidants, including vitamins C and E. “Antioxidants help prevent cell damage and may offer protective benefits against the effects of aging, as well as diseases like cancer and heart disease,” notes Culbertson. Roasted tiger nuts tend to have higher amounts of antioxidants than raw or boiled ones.
Like olive oil, tiger nut oil is high in heart-healthy monounsaturated fat. This fat helps keep your cholesterol numbers in a healthy range, reducing your risk of heart disease and stroke. Tiger nut oil also contains vitamins and nutrients, as well as alkaloids, saponins and tannins. “These chemical compounds have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties,” says Culbertson.
Tiger nuts are high in insoluble dietary fiber. “This type of dietary fiber passes through your system undigested, helping to bulk up stools and prevent constipation,” explains Culbertson. “The fiber also helps you feel full longer, which may help you lose weight.”
Tiger nuts also have resistant starch. This type of fiber acts as a prebiotic, stimulating the growth of good bacteria that aid digestion. “Eating a high-fiber diet may help prevent colorectal cancer, constipation, heart disease and obesity,” she adds.
On the downside, the fibrous nature of tiger nuts can cause bloating and gas, especially if you have digestive disorders. It may help to increase fiber intake slowly, as well as germinating or roasting the tiger nuts to improve digestion, Culbertson suggests.
The high fibrous quality of tiger nuts is also beneficial in preventing blood sugar spikes. “Fiber slows your gut’s absorption of sugar,” says Culbertson. Tiger nuts also contain arginine. This amino acid helps keep blood sugar levels in a healthy range by increasing insulin production and sensitivity. These effects are especially helpful when you have diabetes.
The protein in tiger nuts contains 18 amino acids, putting the tubers on par with eggs and making them a good source of plant-based protein. “Tiger nuts have essential amino acids like lysine and glycine, which you need for healthy bones, muscles and connective tissues,” says Culbertson.
Quercetin, a plant pigment (flavonoid), gives the nutsedge its yellow color. It’s also known as an aphrodisiac. Research is underway to determine whether quercetin in tiger nuts actually stimulates the libido, enhancing sexual performance.
Tiger nut flour is starchier than other gluten-free flour options. As a result, gluten-free breads, crackers, baked goods and pastas made with tiger nut flour taste and look better. Tiger nuts, tiger nut flour, tiger nut oils and tiger nut milks can be a great alternative for people following nut-free, gluten-free or dairy-free diets.
Tiger nuts can add a flavorful, nutritious boost to your diet. Experiment with tiger nut products on the market to see how this superfood can work for you.
Have you heard about the rising superfood star the tiger nut? Learn why this striped, not-a-nut tuber is an excellent addition to your plate…..CONTINUE READING