Plantain: Sweet and healthy superfood

Plantain, a staple food in Nigeria and arguably, across Africa can be consumed cooked, fried or roasted. Most of us (Special ones) have eaten raw plantain before and some of us still do especially when we have slices in front of us waiting to get into the frying pan. It's that tasty!

According to research by hellofood.com, Jollof rice and plantain is the most ordered food in Nigeria. This is not surprising because if you will agree with me, just like the saying goes about a woman being behind every successful man, rice served without being accompanied by plantain is incomplete as plantain compliments Jollof/Fried/White rice and a majority of other dishes as well. Asides from being tasty, plantains are extremely rich in nutrients, vitamins and have health benefits, some of which are:

Digestion: Because plantains enhance phosphorus, calcium and nitrogen retention, they help in the regeneration of healthy tissues

Healthy pregnancy: Plantains contain folic acid which is one of the acids essential for healthy pregnancy.

Eases menstrual Cramps: Plantains contain properties which help to ease the discomfort that comes with the monthly menstrual cycle.

Eyesight support: Plantains contain an essential vitamin – Vitamin A which helps support the eyesight and prevent certain eye conditions.

Strong Bones: Plantains are rich in calcium and calcium is essential for strong bones. They also provide adequate levels of magnesium which is essential for strengthening the bones as well.