“Shalewa Water!!!!!! Where are you now? Quickly bring water for your sister. Pele oko mi (sorry dear,) take some water, I hope you are relieved now?” Kemisola managed to nod her head, still unable to say a word, sweaty and having teary eyes. (Her mum left for the kitchen to check on what she was cooking.) After some time, Kemisola managed to say, “Shalewa, mummy wanted to kill me with pepper and what is my offense – because I just had a baby.” They both laughed about it. Mummy overheard them, came in and said, “It’s medicinal! It’s good for your body, you say it’s pepperish and I didn’t even get all the ingredients complete o.” Curious, Shalewa asked, “Buy all the ingredients, you mean? ”I mean:
Meat or fish, spice mix, scotch bonnet peppers (or other hot peppers,) red bell pepper, onions, garlic, ginger, dry or ground crayfish (optional,) seasoning, water, salt to taste, black pepper, uziza leaves or scent leaves for aroma, paprika (optional for colour) and extra virgin olive oil (also optional.)” “Wow!!! With all these your ingredients, we could be talking about close to #15k o!” said Shalewa. “Yes, but I didn’t spend up to that, I just worked around my budget.” Her mother replied proudly, so, do you care for more, “No!!!” Screamed Kemisola. “I don’t mind taking my own now mummy, just give me as much quantity as possible” said Shalewa; hoping to prove that she is stronger than her sister when it comes to pepper intake. Now, what soup do you think I’m talking about? Your guess is as good as mine, so let’s chorus the answer together: “Pepper Soup!!!” Do you know that Arthritis and Diabetes have a lot of respect for this soup and here’s why:
Pepper soup in Nigeria cuts across every tribe and cannot be credited to any particular state or tribe within the country. It is also up to the cook or intending consumers to determine how hot or pepperish they want it to be. In other words, pepper soup can be tailor-made and budget-made too. In this month’s edition, I would love to look at some health benefits that may accrued from its consumption.
Nigerian pepper soup is a nutritious, low-calorie dish with multiple health benefits, including immune support, digestive aid, weight management, and recovery enhancement, making it a valuable part of Nigerian cuisine and traditional medicine.
It is traditionally used in some communities as part of diabetes management, leveraging the blood sugar-regulating properties of its spices.
Its traditional use in diabetes management reflects a cultural recognition of its potential benefits for blood sugar control, supported by emerging scientific evidence.
How does it work?
Arthritis:
– Black pepper’s piperine has anti-inflammatory effects that may reduce joint inflammation and swelling, as shown in animal studies on arthritis.
– Capsaicin from hot peppers can reduce pain by decreasing pain signal transmission, offering relief from arthritis discomfort.
– Red peppers also contain anti-inflammatory compounds that may help reduce arthritis pain.
Diabetes:
– Piperine in black pepper has been shown in some studies to improve insulin sensitivity and help control blood sugar spikes, though more human research is needed.
– The spices in pepper soup may support better blood sugar regulation as part of a balanced diet.
In addition, eating Nigerian pepper soup has several positive impacts on boosting immunity and managing other health issues because of its nutrient-rich ingredients and medicinal spices.
Let us consider some of them:
Improves Digestion: The fiber content and digestive spices in pepper soup promote healthy digestion and helps with regular bowel movements.
Reduces Inflammation: It has anti-inflammatory effects and can help lower body inflammation.
Supports Weight Loss: The soup is low in calories, high in protein, and its spiciness increases body temperature and water intake, which can aid fat burning and appetite control.
Relieves Respiratory Issues: The heat and spices can soothe colds, coughs, and respiratory discomfort by relaxing the respiratory system.
Promotes Heart Health: Pepper soup may help regulate heart function and rate.
Aids Postpartum Recovery: Rich in nutrients like iron and vitamins, it helps women recover after childbirth by replenishing blood and boosting milk supply as we saw in the introductory part of this write-up.
Enhances Dental Health: Ingredients like African nutmeg help prevent cavities and treat toothaches.
Hydrates the Body: Being broth-based and spicy, it encourages increased water intake, aiding hydration.
Scientific studies also suggest the spices have antibiotic potential and antioxidant effects that contribute to disease prevention.
However, these benefits are mostly supported by preliminary or animal studies, and pepper soup should not replace medical treatment. Also, excessive consumption might interact with medications or cause digestive irritation.
It is important that you note that pepper soup should never be used to replace you consulting your healthcare provider if you have any of the discussed conditions or any health concerns. Ready to employ this soup? Why not?
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