A groundbreaking study reveals the health benefits of African heritage diets, including plantains, cassava, and fermented banana drink, shedding new light on traditional diets and their impact on inflammation and immune response.
Unlocking the Health Benefits of African Heritage Diets: Plantains, Cassava, and Fermented Banana Drink
The Power of Traditional Diets
Researchers have long recognized the importance of traditional diets in maintaining good health. A study published in Nature Medicine has shed new light on the benefits of African heritage diets, specifically those that include plantains, cassava, and fermented banana drink.
African heritage diets are a diverse and rich cultural tradition that varies across different regions and countries.
These diets are characterized by the use of locally sourced ingredients, such as plantains, yams, and sweet potatoes, which provide essential nutrients like fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Traditional African dishes often feature fermented foods like injera bread and suya, which aid digestion and boost immunity.
The incorporation of spices and herbs like cumin, coriander, and ginger adds flavor and aroma to these meals.
The Kilimanjaro Region Study
The study, conducted in Tanzania’s Kilimanjaro region, involved 77 young men who were switched between a traditional heritage diet and a western-style diet for two weeks. Blood samples were taken at the start and end of the trial, as well as four weeks later to assess the impact on inflammatory markers and immune system function.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects
The results showed that those adopting the traditional heritage diet experienced a largely anti-inflammatory effect, with markers of inflammation decreasing and blood tests suggesting improved immune response. In contrast, those switching from a western diet to a heritage diet saw an increase in inflammatory markers and weight gain.
Fermented Banana Drink: A Key Component?
One arm of the trial involved participants drinking the local fermented banana beverage, known as mbege, for one week. This group also experienced improvements in markers of inflammation.
The Importance of Region-Specific Recommendations
Dr. Quirijn de Mast, one of the paper’s authors, emphasized the need for region-specific nutritional guidelines based on scientific data. ‘Research priorities in Africa have historically been determined by countries in the global north with a focus on infectious diseases such as malaria, tuberculosis and HIV,’ he said.
A New Frontier in Research
The study’s findings have significant implications for the growing number of non-communicable diseases in Africa, including diabetes, obesity, and heart disease. The team plans to test what impact adopting a heritage diet can have on Tanzanians living with obesity, including whether it can boost their response to vaccines.
Diversity in Dietary Patterns
De Mast noted that there is significant diversity in dietary patterns across Africa, even within the same region. ‘Godfrey [Temba] is in Kilimanjaro region, but 30km down the road there is the Maasai tribe and their diet is entirely different,’ he said.
Africa is the world's second-largest continent, covering about 20% of the Earth's land area.
It is home to over 50 countries, with diverse cultures, languages, and landscapes.
The 'Sahara Desert' covers much of North Africa, while the savannas and grasslands of East Africa are home to iconic wildlife such as lions and elephants.
West Africa is known for its vibrant cities and rich cultural heritage, while Southern Africa boasts stunning natural beauty and unique geological formations.
The Way Forward
The study’s results provide a promising new direction for research into African heritage diets. As De Mast put it, ‘So I think this is just the beginning of research looking at these heritage diets.‘
