Zobo drink is a popular drink in Africa and Nigeria at large, its name is derived from the Hausa name of the Hibiscus plant “zoborodo”.
You also need to know that Zobo drink’s nutritional values include
Vitamin C
Calcium
Iron
Phosphorous
Niacin
Riboflavin
Fibre
Fat
Thiamine
Carotene, etc.
Check out the health benefits of Zobo drink
It prevents high blood pressure
Dried Hibiscus flower which is used in making this drink has anti-hypertensive properties; it can also prevent the risk factors for hypertension like high levels of cholesterol. Too much cholesterol in the body can form plaques in the blood vessels thereby narrowing or blocking the blood vessel completely. This can lead to hypertension and hypertension is a risk factor for many chronic diseases like stroke, atherosclerosis and heart attack.
It prevents cancer
Zobo drink is rich in vitamin C, antioxidants and phytochemicals that are effective in preventing and fighting cancer; all these vital nutrients ensure healthy growth and repairs of the cells and tissues, it also boosts the immune system which helps in the fight against cancer. It contains a good amount of Anthocyanins; these compounds are anti-cancer compounds, they also protect against liver cancer, they prevent and fight inflammation and can protect one from cancer.
It prevents diabetes
Zobo prevents diabetes and it helps manage the conditions in those that have it; it controls the amount of sugar in the bloodstream, it inhibits the production of amylase, this is an enzyme that breaks down complex carbohydrates and sugars.
It protects the kidneys
Zobo prevents the accumulation of uric acid and oxalic acids in the kidneys; these can lead to kidney stones and other health implications it brings like kidney damage. This drink can effectively reduce the concentration of uric acids, citrate, calcium, creatinine, tartrate, sodium, potassium and phosphate in the urine; this prevents kidney problems and improves the health and functions of the kidneys because an excess of these compounds destroys the kidneys.
It aids weight loss
Zobo has helped many lose weight; it controls appetite and keeps one feeling full for a long time. When you want to take zobo for weight loss; do not add sugar or other artificial sweeteners and colourings, they promote weight gain and make the drink ineffective in weight loss. So take unsweetened zobo if you want to lose weight.
It increases the volume of blood
Some studies suggest that zobo increases the volume of blood; this is possible because hibiscus leaves are rich in iron which helps the body produce new red blood cells and haemoglobin.
It also increases the amount of glutathione and white blood cells. Regular intake of zobo can guard against anaemia in those at risk of it; like, sickle cell patients, women with heavy menstruation, people who lost enough blood due to accident or surgery, etc.
It boosts healthy digestion
This drink ensures proper digestion of foods while preventing digestive problems like constipation, indigestion and other digestive disorders. It is rich in fibre and this prevents constipation.
It treats a cough and cold
Zobo is rich in vitamin C which helps to keep colds, flu, and cough at bay; this vitamin boosts the immune system and fortifies the body against these diseases and others.
It has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties which treat a cough and cold. Zobo drink also has a cooling effect on the body which helps to relieve the symptoms of these conditions.
It boosts the immune system
Zobo is rich in vital nutrients like vitamin C, and other vital minerals that boost immune strength.
Taking zobo regularly will help increase the levels of vitamin and vital minerals in the body that boost immune functions.
It makes the bone strong
Zobo is rich in calcium and it is believed that this mineral is essential for strong bones and it guards against osteoporosis and other bone problems.
Calcium is also needed by important organs in the body like the heart; the muscles also need calcium to function effectively.
The teeth need calcium for strength and many other metabolic activities in the body require calcium.
It boosts overall health
Zobo contains a good amount of vitamin B3; this vitamin supports body function and boosts the overall health of the body.
This vitamin prevents depression and other mental problems; it supports the functions of the brain and makes it healthy, this vitamin prevents diabetes and lowers the risks of cardiovascular disease, it maintains a healthy heart and boosts healthy metabolism.
It boosts vision
Zobo contains carotene which the body converts to vitamin A; this vitamin protects the eyes and supports healthy vision, it maintains healthy mucous membrane and prevents eye diseases related to ageing.
It prevents fatigue
Zobo drink is rich in riboflavin; this is a water-soluble vitamin that helps the body produce energy, this fight fatigue, and weaknesses. It supports a healthy nervous system.
Vitamin B1 contained in zobo leaves boosts a healthy nervous system.
Source:healthable.org
