Eat Me: Five surprising health benefits of kola nut

Kola nut is usually consumed in its natural state but can also be processed and used as a flavouring agent in different types of soda drinks, which is where the name ‘cola’ was derived.

Here are five of its health benefits.

Weight loss

Because of its caffeine content, kola nut is known to be an appetite suppressant.

Kola nut extracts have also been connected with increased fat-burning in the body, possibly due to the positive impact on metabolism that the nuts can have.

Boosts metabolism

Also due to its caffeine content, kola nut has the ability to stimulate the body and increase heart rate.

While this can potentially be dangerous for people who suffer from pre-existing heart conditions, it can provide a necessary metabolic boost for those with a slow metabolism.

Increases circulation

By stimulating heart rate and increasing circulation, kola nuts are able to boost oxygenation to certain essential parts of the body, including the skin, organs, and even the brain.

Kola nuts are traditionally eaten to clear the mind as increased levels of oxygen in the brain have been connected with higher levels of cognition and concentration.

This can also promote healing of wounds and cellular repair through the increased flow of oxygen and nutrients.

Improves digestion

The active ingredients of the kola nut are able to improve digestion and nutrient uptake, while also reducing constipation, bloating, cramping, and other, more serious, gastrointestinal issues.

Boosts the immune system

The roots, stem, and leaves of the kola tree have volatile compounds that can prevent certain bacterial infections in the human body.

These bacterial infections include those responsible for causing a wide range of respiratory illnesses like bronchitis, meningitis, and tuberculosis.

Kola nut extracts are available in most health stores, but the nuts themselves have not been directly connected to this medicinal benefit.