Akpu, also referred to as fufu, is a widely consumed West African food made from ground cassava or cornmeal. It is a staple food in several countries in the region, including Nigeria, Ghana, and Cameroon.
To prepare akpu, cassava or cornmeal is boiled in water until it reaches a soft, dough-like texture and is then pounded or ground into a smooth paste. Akpu is commonly served with soups or stews and is often a key component of many meals.
It is a nutritious and satisfying food that is simple to make and can be enjoyed by people of all ages.
In this post, we will cover the positive and negative impacts that consuming fufu, also known as akpu, might have on one’s health.
Nutritional Content of Fufu (Akpu)
The nutrient profile of akpu includes a high amount of potassium, as well as carbs, dietary fiber, protein, calcium, and iron. It also has a moderate level of iron. A serving size of 100 grams of either akpu or fufu contains 267 calories. [1]
Health Benefits of Eating Fufu
1. Management of Diabetes
Some research has indicated that consuming cassava may help to regulate blood sugar levels, making it a potentially beneficial food for people with diabetes.
2. Improves heart health
Cassava is a good source of dietary fiber, which has been linked to lower cholesterol levels and a reduced risk of heart disease.
Some studies have suggested that a high intake of fiber may be associated with a reduced risk of certain types of cancer, including colon, breast, and stomach cancer.
3. Filling
Fufu is a filling food that can help to keep you feeling full and satisfied after a meal, making it a good choice for weight management.
Filling foods can help to control your appetite and prevent overeating, which can be beneficial for weight management.
4. Nutritious
Fufu is a good source of essential nutrients, including carbohydrates, fiber, and some vitamins and minerals. It is particularly rich in carbohydrates, which provide energy to fuel the body’s daily activities.
Fiber in fufu can also help slow the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream, which can help to regulate blood sugar levels and prevent fluctuations in energy levels.
5. Good source of energy
Fufu, also known as akpu or eba, is a nutritious food that can provide the body with energy. As a carbohydrate-rich food, fufu is broken down into smaller sugars like glucose, fructose, and galactose when ingested and used as a source of energy for the body’s various systems and functions, including the brain, kidneys, heart, muscles, and central nervous system.
Complex carbohydrates in particular are known to be an efficient source of energy that supports muscle contractions. By consuming fufu as part of a healthy diet, you can help to fuel your body with the energy it needs to perform at its best.
6. A low-fat diet
Eating too much trans fat or saturated fat can increase your risk of developing certain health conditions such as heart problems, type 2 diabetes, obesity, strokes, and high blood pressure.
One way to reduce your intake of these unhealthy fats is to choose low-fat foods like akpu. Akpu is also gluten-free, making it a safe choice for people with non-celiac gluten sensitivity and celiac disease.
Possible side effects of eating fufu
Eating too much fufu, can lead to weight gain due to its high carbohydrate content. It may also cause digestive issues like bloating and gas in people who are not used to consuming high-fiber foods.
Some people may also be allergic to cassava, the main ingredient in fufu, and may experience symptoms like hives, itching, swelling, and difficulty breathing.
It’s important to note that fufu is primarily composed of carbohydrates and does not provide significant amounts of other essential nutrients like protein, fat, vitamins, and minerals.
To avoid nutrient deficiencies, it’s important to consume fufu in moderation and include a variety of other nutrient-rich foods in your diet.
If you have any concerns about the potential side effects of fufu, it is always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional.
Conclusion
While fufu, or akpu, is generally considered to be a nutritious food, there are a few things you should be aware of to stay safe. Some studies have shown that the cassava plant, which is used to make fufu, contains a toxic substance called “linamarin” and cyanide, which may cause adverse effects during digestion.
It is important to remember that consuming fufu in moderation and including a variety of other nutrient-rich foods in your diet can help to minimize the potential risks associated with consuming this food.
