Health Guide

Yellow Nut Sedge

Yellow Nut Sedge (Cyperus esculentus), often called Tiger Nut, is actually a tuber, not a nut. Despite the name, this small, earthy root vegetable has been a staple in human diets for thousands of years—from ancient Egyptian tombs to modern-day Spanish horchata. It is currently experiencing a massive resurgence as a 'paleo' and 'vegan' superfood. Why? Because it packs the nutritional punch of a grain with the healthy fats of a nut, all while being completely gluten-free and allergen-friendly. It is particularly prized for its unique fiber profile called resistant starch, which acts like a prebiotic to nourish your gut bacteria.
Evidence BasedDietary Supplement
Yellow Nut Sedge
VERIFIED SOURCE

Bio-Activity Analysis

Tiger Nut Resistant Starch Content vs Common Roots

SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION

Y-Axis
Resistant Starch (grams/100g)
Food Item

Health Benefits & Sources

Why You Need It

  • Gut Health Powerhouse: Feeds beneficial bacteria in your digestive tract.
  • Sustained Energy: High in healthy fats and fiber for steady blood sugar levels.
  • Natural Aphrodisiac: Traditionally used to boost libido and reproductive health.
  • High in Minerals: A great plant-based source of magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium.

Deep Dive

Yellow Nut Sedge (Tiger Nut) is a nutritional anomaly. While it looks like a grain, it behaves like a nut in terms of macronutrients. It is roughly 30-40% oil, most of which is oleic acid—the same heart-healthy monounsaturated fat found in olive oil. However, its superstar component is resistant starch. Unlike regular starch, resistant starch bypasses digestion in the small intestine and ferments in the large intestine. This process produces short-chain fatty acids (like butyrate) that reduce inflammation and strengthen the gut lining. For those with IBS or sensitivity to grains, this makes Yellow Nut Sedge an ideal energy source that doesn't spike insulin.

Natural Food Sources

Yellow Nut Sedge is rarely found in standard produce aisles, but it is easily accessible in health food stores and online. You can eat them raw (dried), roasted, or blended into 'milk'.

Food SourceAmount (per 100g)% Daily Value (Approx)
Tiger Nuts (Dried)100gN/A
Tiger Nut Milk250mlN/A
Tiger Nut Flour100gN/A
Chufa (raw)100gN/A

Supplementation

While you can buy Tiger Nuts in bulk, they are also available as:

  • Flour: Great for baking paleo-friendly treats.
  • Oil: A high-heat cooking oil or salad dressing.
  • Chips: A crunchy, paleo-friendly snack alternative.

Usage: There is no strict Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for Tiger Nuts. A serving size of 1-2 ounces (approx. 30-60g) per day is recommended to reap the digestive benefits without causing bloating.

Top Food Sources

Dried Tiger Nuts (Chufa)
Eat raw, soaked, or roasted
Tiger Nut Milk (Horchata)
Great dairy milk alternative
Tiger Nut Flour
Use in baking 1:1 ratio
Tiger Nut Oil
Rich in Vitamin E
Tiger Nut Chips
Snack form, watch added salt

Frequently Asked Questions

No. Despite the name 'Tiger Nut,' it is a tuber (root vegetable). This makes it safe for people with nut allergies.
It has a unique flavor profile: sweet and nutty with a chewy, coconut-like texture.
Yes! The skin is edible and contains a high concentration of fiber and antioxidants. Just be sure to wash them thoroughly first.
Potentially. The combination of protein, fiber, and healthy fats promotes satiety, helping you feel full longer.

Safety & Side Effects

Yellow Nut Sedge is Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA. It is naturally free from gluten, dairy, and nuts, making it safe for the vast majority of people.

Cautions:

  1. High Fiber Content: Because it is very high in fiber, eating too much too quickly can cause gas, bloating, or cramping. Start with small amounts and drink plenty of water.
  2. Choking Hazard: For toddlers or elderly individuals with swallowing difficulties, raw dried tiger nuts can be hard. Soaking them overnight makes them softer and safer to eat.
  3. Allergies: While rare, some individuals allergic to nuts or tubers may react. Always try a small amount first.

Scientific References

  • [1]Sánchez-Zapata, E., et al. (2012). 'Tiger Nut (Cyperus esculentus): A Review.' *Food Research International*.
  • [2]Bhaskar, A., et al. (2015). 'Resistant Starch and Gut Health.' *Nutrients*.
  • [3]Dhungana, A., et al. (2021). 'Tiger Nut: A Potential Source of Nutrients and Bioactive Compounds.' *Journal of Food Science*.