Learn about the benefits of tiger nut for female fertility and increase your chances of getting pregnant even if it is just a little bit!
What are Tiger nuts?
Tiger nuts, also known as earth almonds, are small tubers belonging to the sedge family. Scientifically known as Cyperus esculentus, it has been cultivated since ancient times, the earliest reference dating back to Neolithic Egypt. They are hard and wrinkled on the outside and chewy on the inside. They have an earthy, sweet taste and are classified as a high-energy and nutrient-dense superfood. You can boil or soak tiger nuts in water to make them easier to chew.
Nutritional Profile and Health Benefits
Tiger nuts are vegan, hypoallergenic, have no lactose, and have an excellent nutritional profile. They contain:
- Sugar
- Dietary fiber
- Carbohydrates
- Protein
- Fat
- Vitamins E and C
- Minerals such as magnesium, calcium, phosphorous, sodium, zinc, potassium, and iron.
The mineral content helps keep bones and teeth healthy, maintains muscle and nerve health. It maintains the proper functioning of the reproductive system, and boosts the immune system.
Oleic acid in the nuts helps lower bad cholesterol levels. Their fiber is pre-biotic, which means they promote the growth of good gut bacteria. They also have anti-bacterial properties. Antioxidants protect your body against chronic diseases and certain types of cancers. Tiger nuts help regulate blood sugar levels, lower cholesterol levels, and promote cardiovascular health.
Benefits of Tiger Nut for Female Fertility
Tiger nuts have been used since ancient times to boost libido. Ayurveda advocates their use as aphrodisiacs. They have been found to enhance fertility in both men and women. African and middle-eastern countries have made the tiger nut milk which contains coconut and dates, and the nuts are popular as a libido booster.
The hormone estrogen governs the female reproductive system. This hormone is responsible for developing secondary sexual characteristics like breasts, the thickening of the endometrium, and the menstrual cycle. Tiger nuts contain methanol which increases the level of estrogen in the body. The vitamin E content in tiger nuts aids regular ovulation in females, thus increasing the chances of pregnancy. It also helps to maintain the placenta during pregnancy.
In lactating women, it increases the production of breastmilk and even protects them from breast cancer. It has proteins and essential minerals, which makes it an excellent food for pregnant women. Minerals like phosphorous, potassium, zinc, selenium, and copper aid the healthy growth and development of the fetus. Tiger nuts also contain glycine that helps strengthen cell membranes.
Ways To Add Tiger Nuts To Your Diet
You can eat raw tiger nuts or roast, fry, bake, soak, or boil them for easy consumption. Additionally, you can also grind them into flour or powder and add them to baked goods or simply produce a drink with milk and tiger nuts. You can add honey or sugar to sweeten it.
You can also add them to oatmeal, quinoa, smoothies, yogurt, and salads to enhance taste and nutritional value. Furthermore, they can be a great addition to dry fruit mixes to make energy bars. You can use the dried nut flour in making bread and baked goods. Always remember that frying them in oil increases their calorie content, and toasting them lowers their nutritive value.
Tiger Nut Milk Recipe
Soak a cup of tiger nuts in water overnight. Add the soaked nuts to a blender and blend till coarse. Add 4 cups of water and blend till smooth and creamy. Strain and pour into a bottle. It is good to drink and you can store it for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Side Effects
Tiger nuts contain certain anti-nutrients like oxalates, saponins, and tannins, which may interfere with the absorption of nutrients in your gut. They have a high fiber content that can cause abdominal pain, gas, and bloating, and hence first-time consumers must gradually increase portion size. They have both carbohydrates and sugar and must be consumed in moderation by weight watchers.
Home Remedies to Boost Female Fertility
Seaweed, salmon fish, oysters, figs, bananas, beans, berries, olive oil, avocados, maca roots, yams, greens, sunflower seeds, and high-fat dairy can boost your fertility levels. Eat a balanced, high fiber, high protein, low sugar, high antioxidant, and complex carbohydrate diet.
Making sure your body gets all nutrients will keep it functioning at its optimum, including the reproductive system. If you want to increase your chances of getting pregnant, you must quit smoking and alcohol. Simultaneously, watch your stress level when ovulating and maintain an ideal weight. If you notice something off with your menstrual cycle, it is best to exercise regularly and consult your doctor.