Corn pap, also known as akamu, ogi, koko, or eko, is adelicious fermented cereal that is prepared with yellow maize, sorghum, pearl millet, and soybeans. To improve the nutritional value of pap, it should be fortified with high-protein legumes such as soybeans or cowpeas.
This superlight food has been around for decades and is consumed by a large number of Nigerians. It is a nutritious cereal that is recommended as the first weaning food for babies as from six months of age.
Traditional processed ogi, akamu, or pap has a sour taste and goes well with fried plantain, pancakes, Akara, fried yam, okpa, bread, puff puff, and beans. When combined with Akamu, any of these make an excellent breakfast. This article goes over the nutritional value of akamu as well as the health benefits of akamu or pap.
5 Potential health benefits of taking pap.
1. Bones and teeth that are strong.
Calcium is abundant in pap made from pearl millet, sorghum, and soybeans.
Calcium is an essential mineral for the formation of bone and teeth. Its deficiency can cause osteomalacia in adults and rickets in children and infants.
2. Increase Lactation Most importantly, lactating mothers require foods that are high in water and other essential nutrients.
Pap is a high-water source that contains all of the essential nutrients in a single serving. It has a strong galactagogue effect.
3. It helps with digestion.
Because it is easily digested, pap helps to prevent constipation and other digestive irregularities. It is ideal for the old and the sick.
4. Helps to Maintain a Good Sleep
Getting proper sleep is essential to good health. The presence of Tryptophan in the cereals used to make akamu increases the level of serotonin in the body which helps to manage stress.
5. High Fiber diet
Pap (akamu) is made from cereals which are very rich sources of fiber. Eating high-fiberfood helps you feel fuller for longer, lowers your cholesterol, and keeps your digestivesystem healthy. High-fiberfoods lower your risk of developingobesity, heart disease, and cancer.
Side Effects of Akamu.
1. Akamu is safe if consumed in moderate amounts. Nevertheless, extreme consumption can lead to serious side effects as the grain contains substances that interfere with the functioning of the thyroid gland.
2. Millets based akamu can cause hindered digestion because of their slow digestion as they are high in fiber.
