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Gwote Acha is a popular Nigerian meal made with fonio. But this cereal can be ground and made into swallow to be enjoyed with any Nigerian soup of choice. Fonio is so healthy that Whole Foods considered it one of the African foods that would dominate the food scene this year. Here are five things you didn’t know about this food: 1. It is the Oldest Grain in Africa: Fonio is considered the oldest cultivated grain in Africa. It has been cultivated for over five thousand years. It is the smallest grain in the Millet family. It is a staple in countries like Nigeria, Burkina Faso, Senegal, Mali. 2. It’s Diabetic Friendly: According to Collaborative Crop Research Programme, fonio contains a high amount of insulin-secreting amino acids, valine, leucine and isoleucine. It also has a low glycemic index and sugar content. This helps to reduce fluctuations in blood glucose and insulin level. All these make it a suitable food for Diabetics. 3. It’s Gluten-Free: Gluten is a protein found in cereals like wheat, rye, barley. Now, some people experience digestive problems when they eat it. This abnormal response to gluten is referred to as gluten intolerance while the disorder is called celiac disease. The most effective treatment for this is strict adherence to a gluten-free diet. Fonio, fortunately, is gluten-free so those with celiac disease can safely eat it.
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4. It is Exceptionally Climate Friendly: Fonio is easy to grow. It requires little water, herbicides, pesticides, fertilizer. This perhaps explains why it is referred to as the lazy farmer’s crop. Fonio has deep roots that help regenerate the soil. It can thrive in periods of drought, flood and other extreme and harsh conditions. 5. It is the World’s Fastest Maturing Cereal: Fonio matures within six to eight weeks of cultivation. It provides food in the growing season when many crops are too immature to eat. This is why it is called the grain of life. So, these are a few facts that you should know about Fonio. If you are still wondering why you should concern yourself with this grain, then, you should know that what was once regarded as poor man’s food is now a king amongst grains because of its nutritional benefits. Sources: Health Benefits Times Healthful Wonders Very Well Fit Featured Image Source: Atacora
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