Recently, “tiger nuts have gained attention because of their excellent nutrient profile,” says Feller. In Spain, tiger nuts have been used for hundreds of years (since the 13th century, according to NPR) to make a cold, creamy beverage known as horchata de chufa (aka tiger nut milk) that’s often enjoyed in the summer. They’re also considered staple ingredients in various cuisines, including Mexican and West African food, says Feller. Translation: These tubers have been a fan favourite for a while. In fact, tiger nuts were apparently such a beloved ingredient that they were entombed and discovered with buried Egyptians from the fourth millennium BC to the fifth century AD, according to research published in Economic Biology. While these might’ve only recently popped onto your radar, the root veggies are not exactly new - far from it, actually. This content is not available due to your privacy preferences. This prebiotic power can also promote an overall happy and healthy gut, which, in turn, can help maintain a range of bodily functions, including immunity, cholesterol regulation, and nerve cell production, explains Feller. Instead, it behaves a lot like fibre and, according to registered dietitian Maya Feller, MS, RD, CDN, feeds the beneficial bacteria in your gut, thereby helping food move through your system. Not only are they full of fibre (which can help control blood sugar levels, lower cholesterol levels, and support bowel health), but they also contain resistant starch, a type of carb that can’t be broken down by your digestive enzymes. Research shows that tiger nuts are also rich in unsaturated (aka “good”) fats, which have been found to lower blood cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease.Īnd when it comes to keeping, err, things running smoothly, tiger nuts have got you covered. The tubers also pack a nutritional punch, offering ample amounts of potassium, calcium, iron, vitamin E, and magnesium, according to a 2015 article published in the Journal of Analytical Methods in Chemistry. Oh, and here’s the kicker: Although tiger nuts aren’t nuts, they do boast a sweet, nutty flavour that’s reminiscent of almonds or pecans, shares Jenna Appel, MS, RD, LDN, registered dietitian and founder of Appel Nutrition Inc.
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