African Black Beans – Cowpeas (Akidi Igbo)

African Black Beans / Cowpeas (Akidi Igbo) is a special type of beans, locally known as Akidi in Igbo. It is relished as a native delicacy and contributes significantly to the meals in the South Eastern part of Nigeria.

Nutritional Benefits

Akidi beans is an excellent source of protein, essential vitamins and minerals, and starch. It provides a high amount of plant-based protein, in addition to many other essential nutrients, which help slow ageing naturally. It has a high concentration of vitamins B2, C, and A, and is high in such minerals as magnesium, iron, folate, and phosphorus. Also, it provides phytonutrients such as saponins, anthocyanins, kaempferol, and quercetin, all of which possess antioxidant properties.

Health Benefits

Akidi beans aids in cancer prevention. This can be attributed to saponins which prevent cancer cells from multiplying and spreading throughout the body.

Selenium, a very important mineral found in the plant, plays a role in liver enzyme function and helps detoxify some cancer-causing compounds in the body. It prevents inflammation and decreases tumour growth rates and is associated with a lowered risk of colorectal cancer.

Folate plays a role in DNA synthesis and repair, thus preventing the formation of cancer cells from mutations in the DNA.

Akidi beans can help manage diabetes. The balance of complex carbohydrates and protein which it contains provides a slow, steady source of glucose instead of the sudden surge that can occur after eating simple carbohydrates.