Corn, scientifically called Zea mays and locally known as oka in Igbo, agbado in Yoruba, and masara in Hausa, is widely grown and consumed throughout Nigeria. It is especially abundant between June and September, when the rains make the fresh green ears swell with milky kernels.
Ube, Dacryodes edulis in botanical terms is also called African pear, bush pear, or elemi (especially among the Yorubas). It is a rich, purple-black fruit, native to West Africa. It ripens around the same time as corn.
Corn and ube are a combination that is very common as they can be enjoyed by either boiling or roasting, and either of this is not just a snack, but serves as food. The roasted form is common with roadside vendors but can also be prepared at home as preferred.
Furthermore, corn can also be processed into local dishes such as tuwo, pap/akamu/ogi (fermented corn pudding), and corn flour for baking and thickening soups. With infants, pap is more effective as it helps infants and toddlers transitioning from breast milk or formula to solid foods.
Health benefits of ube and corn
Corn is highly nutritious and rich in healthy fats, vitamins and antioxidants that help fight heart diseases and diabetes. Monday Sunday Adiaha, in a study titled, “Impact of Maize (Zea mays L.) and it uses for human development,” establishes the significant nutrients in corn, saying it contains minerals and vitamins, which provides nutrition in animal diet as well as man.
Also, the study conducted by E.B Oguntona & I.O Akinyele, titled, “Nutrient Composition of Commonly Eaten Foods in Nigeria-Raw Processed and Prepared,” identifies corn as a source of carbohydrates, providing energy to rural and urban populations. Yellow maize in particular is high in provitamin A (beta-carotene) which is essential in combating vitamin A deficiency.
Ube is commonly included in the diet of pregnant and lactating women due to its soft texture, high-fat content, energy value and also supports fetal development and milk production.
The extracted parts of ube contains antimicrobial effects against bacteria such as E-coli and Staphylococcus aureus.
Amazingly, corn and ube share more than the joy of consumption, they also share similar health benefits. Some of their shared health benefits according to studies are:
Aid digestive health
They are good source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion by promoting regular bowel movements and preventing constipation.
Manage blood sugar level
They also help manage Blood Sugar Levels as they release sugar slowly into the bloodstream, helping to manage blood sugar levels
Boost immune system
They contains essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, vitamin A, manganese, and zinc, which are known to support immune function. Vitamin C, in particular, helps the body fight infections and aids in wound healing.
Promote healthy vision
Ube is a good source of vitamin A, which plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy vision.
Support healthy skin
Yellow corn is rich in antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, which are known to protect the eyes from damage caused by blue light and may reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration and cataracts.
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