Bitter Kola, also known as Garcinia kola, is a fruit from West Africa, used for generations in traditional medicine because of its many health benefits.
Bitter kola can come in handy when needed to remedy some mild illnesses.
It is important to learn about the health benefits and potential side effects of eating bitter kola, just like with any natural therapy.
Bitter Kola Health Benefits
Bitter Kola contains some bioactive compounds like alkaloids, flavonoids, and phenolic.
These compounds contribute to its physiological effects.
Remember that there is limited scientific data on bitter kola, and most of the reported health benefits are subjective.
However, here are the benefits of bitter kola to the body:
1. Nutritional Profile
Bitter kola is rich in vitamins, minerals and phytochemical.
2. Stimulant Properties
Bitter kola has some amount of caffeine, a naturally occurring stimulant.
Caffeine in bitter kola can help improve mental clarity, alleviate fatigue, and boost energy.
3. Antioxidant Activity
Bitter kola contains some powerful antioxidant effects.
It has phytochemicals like flavonoids and vitamin C that assist the body in scavenging dangerous free radicals.
It may protect cells from oxidative stress and chronic illnesses like heart disease and cancer.
4. Anti-inflammatory Effects
Studies have shown in the past that bitter kola has anti-inflammatory qualities.
It contains phytochemicals that may help reduce inflammation in the human body, which is linked to some disorders, including rheumatism and some gastrointestinal issues.
5. Potential Anti-diabetic Effects
Bitter Kola contains some anti-diabetic qualities.
It may help control blood sugar levels and enhance insulin sensitivity.
More research is required to understand its processes, underlying actions, and effectiveness.
6. Digestive Aid
Because of its bitter flavor, bitter kola has long been used as a digestive aid.
It helps digestion and relieves symptoms like bloating and constipation.
7. Potential Anti-cancer Properties
Bitter kola extracts may offer anti-cancer potential, according to some prior research.
The phytochemicals in bitter kola have showed the potential for slowing the spread of cancer cells.
Further research may be required in order to fully understand its potential function in the prevention and treatment of cancer.
What are the Side Effects of Bitter Kola?
These are the side effects of bitter kola you need to know:
1. Stomach Upset
Bitter kola may lead to gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea and stomach pain.
2. Increased Heart Rate and Blood Pressure
Bitter kola has caffeine and other stimulants that may increase blood pressure and heart rate.
When taking bitter kola, people with cardiovascular diseases or hypertension should be careful.
Before taking bitter kola or anything that contains it, see your doctor.
3. Insomnia and Restlessness
Bitter kola contains caffeine, which can function as a stimulant and disrupt sleep cycles.
It could make it difficult for you to get some sleep or stay asleep for a long time, which may cause insomnia.
4. Allergic Reactions
Bitter Kola acts differently in people’s bodies.
It may cause more serious allergies that include breathing difficulties or swelling of the face, lips, or tongue.
These allergic reactions can range in harshness.
Get medical help immediately if you notice any adverse reaction symptoms resulting from the consumption of bitter kola.
Does Bitter Kola Help Sexually?
Bitter kola can improve libido and sexual performance.
It is thought to boost stamina, blood circulation, and energy levels, which may indirectly improve sexual health.
Bitter kola is incredibly beneficial for enhancing sexual performance, particularly in men.
Men who consume bitter kola not only have more sexual desire, but they also perform better sexually.
It is recommended to chew the kola for at least two minutes before sexual activity for it to be effective.
Does Bitter Kola Reduce Blood Sugar?
It is recommended to use medical therapies and lifestyle changes to manage blood sugar levels, despite some studies on bitter kola.
So, if your blood sugar is high or needs any attention, consult a doctor for care and guidance on handling the situation effectively.
Is Bitter Kola Good for Ulcers?
Millions of people suffer from Peptic Ulcer Disease (PUD), one of the most widespread illnesses worldwide.
Medications manage PUD, but better products are needed to reduce the risk of recurrence and side effects.
When blood vessels are broken, platelets help to halt the bleeding by aiding in blood clotting.
Platelets are formed in the bone marrow and released into circulation.
Nitric oxide stimulates ulcer healing and guards against injury to the intestinal wall.
A recent study showed that bitter kola aids wound healing.
Is Bitter Kola Good for the Kidney?
Bitter kola contains flavonoids and alkaloids with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
These properties may help improve kidney function and overall health.
However, before consuming bitter kola, see your doctor if you have any health concerns like kidney issues.
Can Someone Having Liver Disease Eat Bitter Kola?
Speak to your doctor for dietary guidance if you have liver illness.
Based on the patient’s health and the degree of their liver disease, a health expert can offer precise advice.
Is Bitter Kola Good for Weight Loss?
Bitter kola contains several bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, alkaloids, and tannins.
Some of these compounds have been studied for their potential effects on weight management.
It can also act as an appetite suppressant, aiding weight loss.
Conclusion
Bitter kola has side effects and potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, antimicrobial activity, appetite suppression, and potential anticancer effects.
However, it is important to consume bitter kola in moderation as it contains caffeine and may cause digestive issues.
Some individuals may also be allergic to it.
Consult a healthcare professional before using bitter kola as a remedy or dietary supplement.
READ ⇒ Nigerian Food Timetable for Ulcer Patient (Get Free Meal Plan)
