Yellow Nut Sedge

Bio-Activity Analysis
Tiger Nut Resistant Starch Content vs Common Roots
SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION
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 Source | Amount (per 100g) | % Daily Value (Approx) |
|---|---|---|
| Tiger Nuts (Dried) | 100g | N/A |
| Tiger Nut Milk | 250ml | N/A |
| Tiger Nut Flour | 100g | N/A |
| Chufa (raw) | 100g | N/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
Frequently Asked Questions
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:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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*.