Plantains, nuts: Perfect pairing for weight management, energy, diabetes support

The age-old adage "you are what you eat" rings truer than ever. As chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes and heart disease continue to rise, the importance of nutrition in preventing and managing these conditions cannot be overstated.

A well-balanced diet rich in whole foods is essential for maintaining overall health and well-being.

In West Africa, particularly in Ghana, plantains and nuts have been staple foods for centuries. While often enjoyed separately, combining these two nutrient-dense foods can have a profound impact on our health. 

The combination of plantains and nuts can support weight management, boost energy and provide diabetes support.

Overview, classification

Plantains and nuts are two staple foods that are widely available in Ghana and are often consumed separately. However, when paired together, they provide a powerhouse of nutrients that can have a significant impact on our health.

Plantains belong to the Musaceae family and are starchy; they can be consumed at various stages of ripeness, classified into unripe and ripe categories.

Nuts, on the other hand, are a diverse group of dry fruits that are rich in nutrients and belong to various families, including the Anacardiaceae and Juglandaceae, which include cashews, walnuts and groundnuts (peanuts).

Plantains are a nutrient-rich food providing essential nutrients in both ripe and unripe forms. Ripe plantains are rich source of easily digestible carbohydrates, making them a great source of energy. They contain antioxidants and phytochemicals with anti-inflammatory properties.

In contrast, unripe plantains offer a different set of nutritional benefits. They are rich source of potassium for muscle function, resistant starch for weight management, pectin for cholesterol and blood sugar regulation.

Nuts are a nutrient-dense food that provides a range of essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, including protein, healthy fats, fibre, vitamins E and B6, and minerals like magnesium, selenium, and zinc which play a critical role in maintaining healthy muscles, bones, organs, and help lower cholesterol levels.

Benefits

Pairing plantains with nuts can help regulate blood sugar levels and support weight management. According to Weickert and Pfeiffer (2018), a diet high in fibre and protein such as that provided by plantains and nuts can lead to significant weight loss and improved weight management

As noted by Jeukendrup (2017), consuming complex carbohydrates, such as those found in plantains, can improve endurance exercise performance and reduce fatigue by preventing energy crashes. Additionally, Liu and Li (2018), found that consuming nuts, such as almonds and cashews, can improve cognitive function and reduce fatigue.

McKay and Blumberg (2017), observed that the antioxidants present in nuts, such as walnuts and pecans, can improve insulin sensitivity, reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, and also reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes. 

Plantain ‘ampesi’ and groundnut stew, plantains chips with nuts, ‘Ɛtɔ’ (boiled and mashed ripe plantain with nuts), ‘kelewele’ (spicy fried plantains with nuts), dry plantain for ‘konkonte’ with groundnut soup, plantain for ‘fufu’ served with groundnut soup, and banana with nuts.

Conclusion

In conclusion, pairing plantains with nuts is a perfect duo for weight management, energy and diabetes support.

With their balanced mix of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats, plantains and nuts can provide sustained energy, support weight loss, and regulate blood sugar levels. 

So next time you're planning a meal or snack, consider pairing plantains with nuts for a nutritious and delicious treat.

The writer is a doctor of Naturopathic Medicine (N.D. Candidate), 
Medical Journalist, Integrative Health Expert, & Medical Laboratory Technologist.
E-mail: kofiappiah803@gmail.com