The Hidden Benefits of Sugarcane: What Experts Want You to Know

 

''He who brings kola, brings life” is a saying that many Nigerians hold dear, but what if we extend that wisdom to sugarcane? This tall, juicy grass isn’t just a roadside snack or a childhood memory of chewing on its sweet, fibrous stalk. Sugarcane, known locally as 'reke' or 'rake' in Hausa or ‘Okpete’ or ‘Ireke’ in Yoruba, holds surprising health benefits many Nigerians overlook.

Whether you enjoy it fresh from the market or squeezed into a cup by a street vendor, sugarcane is more than a sweet treat; it's nature’s hidden powerhouse. Let’s explore the local relevance and expert-backed health benefits that make sugarcane a gem in Nigeria’s nutritional landscape.

Nutritional Profile of Sugarcane

Sugarcane juice isn’t just sugary water. It’s packed with essential nutrients that offer more than meets the eye:

(i) Natural sugars: primarily sucrose, giving a quick, natural energy boost. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), sugarcane juice contains about 13-15% natural sugars, mainly sucrose, which provides an immediate, sustained energy source a healthier alternative to processed sugars commonly found in sodas and snacks.

(ii) Electrolytes: like potassium and calcium, crucial for hydration. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), potassium helps regulate fluid balance, nerve signals, and muscle contractions, while calcium supports nerve function and muscle movement essential in Nigeria’s hot climate where hydration is vital.

(iii) Antioxidants: including flavonoids and polyphenols, which fight cell damage. Research published in the Journal of Food Science and Technology (2015) highlights sugarcane’s rich antioxidant content, emphasizing its ability to reduce oxidative stress, prevent cell damage, and support overall health as a natural defense against chronic diseases common in tropical regions like Nigeria.

(iv) Vitamins: including vitamin C, vitamin B6, and trace B-complex vitamins. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), sugarcane juice contains a notable amount of vitamin C, which supports immune function and skin health, while vitamin B6 aids in brain development and mood regulation crucial in maintaining energy levels and mental clarity in demanding Nigerian lifestyles.

(v) Minerals: iron, magnesium, phosphorus, and zinc, promoting overall wellness. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), these minerals are crucial for maintaining healthy blood, supporting muscle and nerve function, and boosting immune resilience, essential for Nigerians who often face nutrient deficiencies due to heavy reliance on carbohydrate-rich diets.

This nutrient cocktail s upports various health functions, making sugarcane a practical addition to everyday diets.

#1. A natural energy booster

In Nigeria’s sweltering heat, it’s common to see people grabbing a cold bottle of soda for quick relief. But what if sugarcane juice offers a healthier alternative? Packed with natural sugars and electrolytes, it revives the body after a long day under the sun or intense physical activity. Imagine a market trader in Lagos, spending hours under the scorching sun. A cup of sugarcane juice restores their energy faster than any processed drink, without artificial additives. A study published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition (2018) found sugarcane juice as effective as commercial sports drinks in replenishing lost energy and hydration.

#2. Supports liver health

For many Nigerians, jaundice (popularly called ‘yellow fever’) is a serious concern. Traditional remedies often include sugarcane juice, and for good reason. It’s alkaline, which helps maintain electrolyte balance and supports liver function. In rural areas like Kano and Bauchi, people traditionally give sugarcane juice to those recovering from jaundice. Modern research backs this, showing that sugarcane’s antioxidants help detoxify the liver. Several studies confirm that sugarcane juice supports liver recovery and protects against toxins.

#3. Aids digestion and gut health

After a hearty meal of pounded yam and egusi soup, indigestion can hit hard. Sugarcane juice, rich in potassium, aids digestion and prevents stomach upsets. It helps regulate bowel movements and prevents bloating. In parts of Eastern Nigeria, sugarcane is often consumed after festive meals to ease the stomach. It acts as a mild laxative and supports gut bacteria growth.

#4. Promotes healthy skin

Nigeria’s dusty harmattan season often leaves skin dry and dull. Sugarcane juice, loaded with glycolic acid and antioxidants, helps nourish the skin from within. It reduces acne, blemishes, and signs of aging. A university student in Abuja struggling with acne might spend a fortune on imported skincare products. But a weekly dose of fresh sugarcane juice could provide a natural, affordable solution. Several dermatologists highlight glycolic acid’s exfoliating and brightening properties and sugarcane delivers this naturally.



#5. Strengthens bones and teeth

Children in Nigeria are no strangers to chewing sugarcane for fun. Beyond the sweet taste, sugarcane contains calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and iron essential for developing strong bones and teeth. Many parents in the South-West encourage kids to chew sugarcane, believing it strengthens their teeth. Science supports this tradition, showing that sugarcane’s mineral content aids bone health.

#6. Helps prevent kidney stones

Kidney stones are on the rise due to diets high in salt and low in fluids. Sugarcane juice’s diuretic properties help flush toxins and prevent kidney stones. For a busy Lagos banker who barely drinks water, a daily cup of sugarcane juice could help prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs) and kidney stones. A 2017 study in Phytotherapy Research supports sugarcane juice’s ability to reduce calcium oxalate, a key component of kidney stones.

#7. Supports weight management

It’s easy to overindulge in starchy foods like rice, yam, and bread, common in Nigerian households. Sugarcane juice, low in fat and naturally sweet, curbs cravings and supports weight management. Nutritionists recommend sugarcane juice as a healthy alternative to processed drinks, highlighting that natural sugars are metabolized more efficiently.

#8. Boosts immunity

From malaria to typhoid, Nigerians face various infections. Sugarcane juice, packed with antioxidants, strengthens immunity, supports white blood cells, and fights inflammation. A Food Chemistry (2020) review revealed sugarcane’s polyphenolic compounds are powerful immunity boosters, similar to those in green tea.

Conclusion

Sugarcane isn’t just a roadside delight; it’s a health powerhouse rooted in Nigerian tradition and backed by science. From recharging market traders to soothing upset stomachs after local delicacies, sugarcane holds immense potential for everyday wellness.

So, next time you see a sugarcane vendor on the streets of Jalingo, Lagos, Maiduguri, Enugu, or Kano, remember: you’re not just indulging your sweet tooth; you’re giving your body a natural, nutrient-packed boost. Why not make sugarcane a regular part of your diet, just like our ancestors did?

************NextGen Health and Wellness Team

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