These 4 Popular Nigerian Foods Combinations Results in Stomach Pain, Don’t Joke with Number 4

Nigerian cuisine is celebrated for its rich flavors, unique ingredients, and vibrant dishes. However, some popular food combinations that are staples in many homes may not always be the healthiest choices when eaten together.....Read Full Article>>

These combinations can sometimes lead to bloating, discomfort, or even serious stomach pain. If you’ ve ever felt uneasy after a delicious Nigerian meal, you’ re not alone, and it might have to do with the foods you paired together.

In this article, we’ ll explore four popular Nigerian food combinations that could be the culprits behind that unwanted stomach pain.

Beans and Garri
Beans, particularly the variety commonly known as ” ewa, ” are a rich source of protein and fiber, making them a healthy choice on their own. Garri (processed cassava flakes), on the other hand, is a carbohydrate- heavy food that is commonly enjoyed as a snack or a side dish to various meals.

While both foods are nutritious, eating them together could lead to serious digestive issues for some people.

Beans take a longer time to digest due to their high fiber content, and when combined with garri, which can swell in the stomach due to its high starch content, the digestive system becomes overloaded. This can result in bloating, cramping, and intense stomach pains.

To avoid this discomfort, it may be wise to limit how often you combine these two foods or opt for lighter combinations with beans like plantains or vegetables.

Milk and Akara (Bean Cake)
Akara, the crispy and tasty bean cake, is a popular street food often eaten with pap or custard. Some people enjoy pairing akara with milk for a richer meal. However, this combination can be tough on the stomach. Akara, made from ground beans, is already quite heavy on its own. Adding milk, a dairy product that is known to be problematic for those with lactose intolerance, only adds to the challenge.

For many Nigerians, lactose intolerance can go unnoticed because dairy isn’ t a staple in most traditional diets. However, when combined with a fried food like akara, which is high in oil and fat, the body may struggle to digest the meal. This can lead to indigestion, gas, and severe stomach pain. It’ s advisable to consume akara in moderation and avoid pairing it with milk if you notice discomfort after eating.

Yam and Egg Sauce
Yam and egg sauce is a beloved breakfast or dinner option in many Nigerian homes. Yam, a tuber rich in carbohydrates, is relatively easy to digest when boiled. Egg sauce, made with scrambled or fried eggs and vegetables, adds protein and flavor to the meal.

However, for people with sensitive stomachs or those prone to digestive issues, this combination can be problematic. Eggs are a high- protein food that can sometimes take longer to break down in the digestive system, and when paired with yam, which is starchy and filling, it can lead to stomach bloating and discomfort. The heaviness of both ingredients can slow down the digestive process, causing pain and sometimes even nausea. To ease digestion, try eating smaller portions of yam and egg sauce or substituting yam with a lighter carbohydrate option like boiled plantains.

Eba and Ogbono Soup
Eba, a staple made from garri, is a dense and filling food that is often paired with various soups in Nigeria, one of the favorites being ogbono soup.

Ogbono, made from wild mango seeds, is rich and often heavy, especially when cooked with assorted meats and fish. While this is a comforting and delicious combination, it is not always kind to the digestive system.

The combination of eba and ogbono soup can cause indigestion and severe bloating because both foods are dense and take longer to digest. Eba, in particular, can expand in the stomach, leading to discomfort, while the oils in the soup can exacerbate the problem by slowing down digestion. If you notice stomach pains after consuming eba and ogbono, it’ s essential to eat smaller portions or pair the soup with a lighter starch like pounded yam or fufu.

Nigerian food is rich in culture and flavor, but not all combinations are suitable for everyone’ s digestive system.

If you find yourself frequently experiencing stomach discomfort after eating, consider paying closer attention to the foods you are pairing together.

voiding these specific combinations or opting for smaller portions may help you enjoy your favorite Nigerian dishes without the painful side effects. Always listen to your body, and don’ t hesitate to consult with a healthcare professional if stomach pain persists.