In
terms of taste, the plant is well named! The edible seeds have a
notably bitter taste, while there is also a slight sweetness to
them. When consumed, bitter kola offers many nutrients, and studies
have shown that the plant is high in carbohydrates, fat, protein,
vitamin c, calcium, potassium, iron and caffeine. Bitter kola
has a high concentration of antioxidants, which is a term for any
compound that counteracts free radicals. While environmental
stressors such as tobacco smoke, ultraviolet rays and air pollution
cause free radical production, they are also produced by many
normal processes in the body including exercise and our immune
response. Free radicals damage DNA, cell membranes, and other parts
of cells. So, as well as being essential assistance for important
functions in the body, antioxidants also support the immune system.
With a strong immune system we are better able to fight disease and
stay healthy.
