Food | Zikoko!

If you’ve ever wondered why people still reach for it despite the bitter taste, or if you’re just hearing about it for the first time, this article breaks it all down. With insights from Pharm. John Louis Okoh Amalii, we’ll explore 12 proven health benefits of bitter kola, how it works in the body, when to use it (and when not to).

Before you chew your next seed or try your first one, let’s take a closer look at what bitter kola really offers.

What Is Bitter Kola and Why Is It So Popular?

Bitter kola, known scientifically as Garcinia kola, is a small but powerful nut that has held a special place in West African tradition for generations. Found mostly in Nigeria and surrounding countries, it is a symbol of respect, health, and heritage. You’ll often see it offered at weddings, naming ceremonies, and community gatherings, where elders pass it around as a gesture of goodwill. It’s also used in prayers, cultural rites, and traditional medicine.

Today, bitter kola is gaining attention beyond Africa, especially among those looking for natural ways to improve their health. Whether you’re interested in boosting your immune system or managing blood sugar, the benefits of bitter kola in the body are now being explored more deeply than ever.

But before you try it, it’s important to understand the health benefits of bitter kola in the body and what makes it so special.

What Are the Nutrients Per Serving in Bitter Kola?

Bitter kola is packed with active compounds and essential minerals. Each part of the nut plays a role in supporting the body’s health naturally. So, what exactly is in bitter kola?

Here’s a breakdown of the nutrients found in 100g of dried bitter kola:

Nutrient	Amount
Carbohydrates:	70–82 g
Protein	3.5–12.7 g
Fats	0.6–6.3 g (mostly unsaturated)
Crude Fibre	2–6 g
Calcium	23–238 mg
Iron	3.6–9.4 mg
Potassium	12–26 mg
Zinc	0.13–0.23 mg

Beyond these, bitter kola composition contains alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, and saponins: plant-based compounds that act as natural antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents.

One of the most powerful compounds found in bitter kola is garcinoic acid, which has been shown in lab studies to reduce inflammation and may help protect against chronic diseases.

“The primary constituent of bitter kola is caffeine,” Pharm. John Louis Okoh Amalii adds. “It’s the same compound that gives you alertness when you drink coffee or tea, which explains why people feel more energetic and focused after chewing it.”

These nutrients in bitter kola work together to explain the many benefits of bitter kola in the body.

ALSO READ: Miracle Leaf Benefits: 12 Powerful Ways This Leaf Supports Your Health

12 Health Benefits of Bitter Kola for Your Body and Mind

Bitter kola contains natural compounds that support nearly every system in your body. Backed by both cultural use and growing scientific research, here are 12 proven health benefits of bitter kola:

1. Fights Cold, Flu, and Sore Throat

Bitter kola is well-known for clearing mucus, soothing sore throats, and easing chest congestion. Its antiviral properties help reduce symptoms and speed up recovery.

2. Boosts Immunity

The antioxidants in bitter kola, especially kolaviron and garcinoic acid, help protect cells from damage and strengthen your immune response.

3. Increases Energy and Mental Alertness

Many people chew bitter kola for a quick boost in energy and focus. It contains small amounts of natural caffeine and stimulating compounds.

4. Supports Liver and Kidney Health

Bitter kola helps detox the body. Animal studies have shown that it protects liver tissue and supports kidney function under stress.

5. Anti-inflammatory Properties

Compounds like kolaviron and garcinoic acid reduce inflammation, helping conditions like arthritis, swelling, and internal pain.

6. Improves Brain Function

The antioxidants and alkaloids found in bitter kola may protect brain cells, improve memory, and reduce age-related cognitive decline.

7. Supports Heart Health

A major health benefit of bitter kola is that it helps reduce bad cholesterol (LDL) and improves blood circulation, both of which are essential for a healthy heart.

8. Acts as a Natural Antibiotic

Its strong antibacterial and antiviral properties make it a go-to for fighting infections, especially in traditional medicine.

9. May Help Lower Blood Sugar

Studies suggest that one of the health benefits of bitter kola is its ability to reduce blood glucose levels, making it potentially useful for people managing type 2 diabetes.

10. Supports Weight Management

Its bitter compounds act as appetite suppressants and metabolism boosters, which may help with gradual weight loss when combined with healthy habits.

11. Aids Digestion

Bitter kola stimulates the production of saliva and gastric juices, helping break down food more efficiently and reducing bloating.

12. Supports Oral Health

Its antimicrobial properties may help reduce bad breath, fight oral bacteria, and protect the gums when chewed regularly.

While many people believe bitter kola has an effect on sexual health, Pharm. John Louis Okoh Amalii explains: “Some research suggests bitter kola may improve fertility, but it’s still early. The studies we have are promising, but they aren’t enough to call it a proven treatment yet.”

ALSO READ: How to Have Sex Like a Pro: 10 Expert Nigerian Lovers Share Tips

5 Side Effects of Bitter Kola

While there are many health benefits of bitter kola, it’s not suitable for everyone. Like any powerful plant compound, it can trigger side effects, especially when consumed in excess or alongside certain health conditions.

1. May Raise Blood Pressure in Some People

Although bitter kola is often linked to health benefits, some studies suggest it may increase blood pressure in certain individuals. If you already have hypertension or are taking medication for it, speak with your doctor before adding bitter kola to your routine.

2. Insomnia and Restlessness

Because bitter kola contains small amounts of natural caffeine and other stimulants, consuming it late in the day may affect sleep.

“People with heart problems, anxiety, or insomnia should avoid bitter kola.” Pharm. John Louis Okoh Amalii advises. “The caffeine it contains can overstimulate the heart muscle and make anxiety or restlessness worse. Bitter kola can interfere with certain medications, especially drugs used for the heart such as ephedrine. Combining the two can put extra strain on the heart, so always check with a doctor first.”

3. Not Safe During Pregnancy or Breastfeeding

There is no confirmed data on the safety of bitter kola during pregnancy, and traditional warnings exist in some communities. Due to its stimulant content and hormonal effects, it is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women without medical supervision.

4. Gastrointestinal Upset

Taking large amounts of bitter kola can irritate the stomach lining, leading to nausea, acid reflux, or digestive discomfort, especially if chewed on an empty stomach.

5. May Interact With Medications

Bitter kola can interfere with drug absorption or enhance the effects of medications like stimulants, blood pressure drugs, diabetes meds, or blood thinners. Always talk to a healthcare provider before using it alongside prescribed treatments.

ALSO READ: Moringa Benefits for Women: What It Does and How to Use It

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How to Identify Quality Bitter Kola

Fresh, high-quality bitter kola seeds should meet these standards:

Firm texture: The nut should be solid and not soft or spongy.
Shiny brown skin: It should have a smooth, slightly glossy exterior: not dry, pale, or wrinkled.
Clean cut when sliced: The inside should be creamy-white or slightly yellow, with no dark spots or mold.
Strong bitter aroma: Fresh bitter kola has a distinctive sharp smell, if it smells sour or weak, it’s likely stale.
Weight: A fresh seed feels heavy for its size. Lightweight seeds may be dried out or hollow.

Avoid bitter kola that shows the following signs:

Dark, patchy mold on the surface or inner flesh
Wrinkled or cracked shells (unless it’s a dried variety)
Discoloration: black or greyish interiors signal spoilage
Sticky or slimy surface (usually due to poor storage or moisture exposure)
No bitterness when chewed, fake or stale seeds may taste bland or sour

Tip: Some sellers may soak old kola in water to make it appear fresh. Gently press the skin, if it’s too soft or peels too easily, it may be tampered with.

If you’re thinking of growing your own bitter Kola, this video would be of help:

How to Start Taking Bitter Kola

If you’re trying bitter kola for the first time, start with half a seed once a day, preferably after a meal.

“In my experience, the safe amount of bitter kola to chew is about one to three seeds a day, not more,” says Pharm. John Louis Okoh Amalii. “The caffeine content varies from seed to seed, so moderation is key if you want the benefits without side effects.”

The taste is strong, but you’ll get used to it. Gradually increase to one full seed daily, but don’t overdo it. Chewing more than 2 seeds per day isn’t recommended without medical advice.

If you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, managing a health condition, or taking prescription medications (like blood pressure or diabetes drugs), do not start bitter kola without consulting your doctor or a licensed pharmacist. Natural remedies can still interfere with your body or medication.

ALSO READ: Talk True: Does Zobo Cause Miscarriages?

Final Thoughts

Bitter kola isn’t a miracle cure, but it’s a time-tested natural remedy with real benefits. From boosting immunity to supporting digestion and even enhancing focus, it offers a wide range of wellness perks rooted in both tradition and science.

Bitter kola has earned its place in African homes for good reason. With the right knowledge, moderation, and medical guidance, it can be a safe and powerful addition to your wellness routine.

Lastly: “A lot of the benefits we hear about are encouraging, but more thorough research is still needed. People should use it wisely and not assume it’s a cure for everything.” – Pharm. John Louis Okoh Amalii (Pharm. D.)

ALSO READ: 10+ Benefits of Cloves Sexually for Men & Women

*Toluwani, 29, didn’t grow up dreaming about marriage. But after two years of being married to a man who’s still her best friend, she’s realising that the hardest part of marriage isn’t the love — it’s figuring out what to eat every day and building a stable life in Nigeria while staying true to yourself and your partnership.

This is a look into Toluwani’s marriage diary.

I didn’t grow up dreaming of marriage

My mum’s reality shaped my view of marriage. She was separated from my dad for as long as I could remember. I never saw her entertain male friends or date anyone. Her entire energy was poured into raising me and my siblings. Any spare time she had, she spent it with her sisters. As a teenager, when I started learning about sex and relationships, I used to wonder why my mum never dated. But I never asked. Watching her live that way didn’t make me dream of marriage.

Moving out of my family home after the wedding broke me

After our wedding, my husband and I didn’t move in together immediately. He was still finalising a transfer at work, so we continued with our lives as if we were still dating. I stayed at my mum’s, and he’d visit every now and then. That went on for four months.

Then one day, it was time to finally move. I broke down as I packed up the room I’d lived in my whole life. I didn’t expect it. I wasn’t second-guessing the marriage or doubting my husband — it was just grief. Saying goodbye to my space, my family, my comfort was harder than I thought it would be. I remember my mum walking in and asking if I was okay. I couldn’t bring myself to tell her the whole truth, so I simply said, “I’ll miss my room.”

And that was true. But it was more than that. I was mourning the version of myself I was leaving behind.

The biggest fights we’ve had were about food, and they taught me how to actually listen

Nobody warned me how chaotic food would be in marriage. We’ve had some of our biggest arguments around the question: “What are we going to eat?” It sounds silly until you realise you’re dealing with two exhausted people, trying to navigate adulthood, who are suddenly responsible for each other’s nutrition.

My husband and I share cooking duties. He goes to the market, and he can throw down in the kitchen. But still, we find ourselves in this endless loop of not knowing what to eat. And when you’re tired and hungry, that question feels like war.

One of our earliest disagreements was during our first week of living together. He had spent the entire day lifting heavy stuff and setting up our new place, while I was in the room arranging the wardrobe. I didn’t realise how hungry he was. When he asked what we’d eat, I casually replied, “I don’t know; I’ve also been busy.”

He didn’t yell. He quietly entered the kitchen, made noodles for both of us, and spent the rest of the day silent. Then the next day. Then the next. He didn’t let me enter the kitchen — just kept cooking and ignoring me.

Eventually, we talked. That’s when I learned that when he says, “I’m hungry,” he’s not demanding food from me. He just needs me to indulge him in that moment. Sometimes, all he needs is a suggestion or even just empathy. That situation changed how I listen. I learned not to hear something else in place of what he’s actually saying. These days, I try to respond with care and concern — even if I’m exhausted. Because hunger is a real trigger for him, and ignoring it only escalates things.

Got a marriage story to share? Please fill the form and we’ll reach out.

Marriage didn’t change me, adulthood did

I wouldn’t say marriage has changed me. It’s adulthood that has. My husband and I are the same age, so we’re both figuring life out simultaneously. There’s no “more experienced” partner to lean on. We’re hustling together, building together, failing and getting back up together.

This shared responsibility has forced us to grow up fast. I miss the younger version of myself — the playful, carefree woman who didn’t have to think about raising a family, saving for the future or navigating Nigeria’s economic chaos.

Some days, I wonder if marriage would feel different if I married someone older, someone who already had some stability. But we’re in this together, and I’m proud of what we’re building — even if it doesn’t always feel joyful in the way I imagined.

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We haven’t had to make big compromises — yet

We’ve pulled our weight individually and together in our two years of marriage. I haven’t had to make any significant compromises yet. But I worry about the future, especially when we start having kids. I’ve tried bringing it up, but my husband always says, “When we get to that bridge, we’ll cross it.”

For now, I believe him. I don’t like projecting into the future too much. I’ve learned that the best way to approach marriage is with as few expectations as possible. If there’s anything I’d tell my unmarried self, it’s this: Don’t go in with expectations. Not good ones. Not bad ones. Just go in with an open mind. Let each day teach you what marriage is.

So many people are miserable in their marriages because they’re chasing an image they built in their heads. And when reality doesn’t match, they become resentful. I didn’t go into marriage with a picture-perfect fantasy, and I think that’s helped me roll with the punches.

We’ve been married two years, and I won’t pretend we’ve figured it all out. But I also won’t borrow grief from the future. Kids will come. New phases will come. And we’ll figure it out when we get there, just like we’ve figured out everything else.

Got a marriage story to share? Please fill the form and we’ll reach out.

A few days ago, I got pulled into an interesting conversation about stress eating. Adelayo* (26) shares how pressures at work led to her developing a poor coping habit— binge eating. She also opens up about how maintaining this habit and keeping it a secret adds to her stress.

This is Adelayo’s story as told to Betty

I like to think of myself as a foodie. I love the experience of eating a meal, from the textures to the visual presentation, but when I binge eat, it’s never from a place of enjoyment.

Growing up, I never had a problem with food. Like I said, I enjoy food, but I’ve always had really good control of my appetite. I ate a fairly balanced diet for a Nigerian and worked out regularly. But when I moved to Lagos in 2024, everything changed. The pressures of my job have made it hard to manage stress in a healthy way.

I work as a video editor, and my deadlines can be pretty demanding. The stress from work has now led me to overindulge in food. The first time I made a big mistake at work was in March 2024. I had missed an important deadline, and my manager dragged me during a meeting in front of our entire team. I felt really embarrassed. When I got home that day, I ordered a pizza and a plate of rice and ate till my stomach hurt. I was bloated for days after, and I weirdly relished the painful feeling of my overfull stomach.

Weirdly enough, it worked— at least on the surface. I didn’t mess up at work for months. But then, in September, I got in trouble again after making another mistake. That night, I ate two packs of Oreos, three plates of rice from different restaurants, and downed a litre of juice. At some point, I had to throw up because my body literally couldn’t take it. I felt disgusted. But I also felt like I deserved to feel that way. I wasn’t doing well at work, and in my head, this was my consequence.

It’s been like that ever since. In December, I ordered five packs of food from a popular restaurant. I didn’t even eat them because I was hungry, I ate them because I felt bad about missing a brief. The next morning, my friend dropped by unannounced. She saw all the empty food packs and asked if I’d had people over. I lied and said yes. What else could I say?

Since the start of this year, I’ve been having at least two binge-eating episodes a month. It’s getting harder to ignore. I can barely afford the food, and I’ve gained noticeable weight, which has people asking questions. But no one sees me eat like this because I don’t do it around others. I live alone, which makes it easy to hide—for now.

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Still, I can feel the secret getting heavier, literally and emotionally. The anxiety of being found out has triggered even more episodes. It’s a vicious cycle I don’t fully understand, and if I’m being honest, I’m not even sure I’m ready to stop. I’m currently saving to see a therapist, hoping that talking to someone might help me untangle all of this. Until then, I’m carrying this quiet, painful, embarrassing secret alone.

If you or anyone you know is struggling with an eating disorder, you can access free or low-cost therapy options here.

If you enjoyed reading this you’ll also enjoy: I Married My Second Wife At 30. A Third Isn’t Off The Table

You wake up one morning with sweaty palms and your stomach rumbling, but is that love or hunger?

We caught up with twelve young Nigerians and asked them to describe their exes with a Nigerian food or snack and tell us why. Their responses will make you laugh and will definitely leave you hungry for a satisfying meal by the end.

“My ex is like Nigerian jollof rice, perfect in every way, but I had commitment issues, so we couldn’t make it work.” — Dare (26)

“Exactly like unripe agbalumo. It looked ripe on the outside but turned out to be sour when I bit into it with a healthy helping of maggots on the side. She was so immature and toxic.” — Yomi (28)

“They were like kuli kuli. They’re an acquired taste and can be very hard for some strange reason, but I liked our relationship while it lasted.” — Hanna (24)

“My ex was like efo riro with plenty obstacles. They say, ‘Better soup, na money kill am’. I mean, she was lovely but high maintenance, and I just didn’t have enough money to keep her in my life.” — Oyinda (25)

ALSO READ: Table Talk: She Loves Hard Dodo, but I’m About the Soft Life

“He was like one day old eba. The relationship was just there, it wasn’t my preferred situation, but I managed it.” — Toni (28)

“Very wicked girl, I’d say ewa agoyin because it’s a lovely eating experience, but the consequences will have you wondering if it was even worth it.” — Tomi (22)

“Like the most gorgeous plate of Mr Biggs fried rice without salt or seasoning. Because he seemed so amazing from afar, but as soon as I got close to taste, I saw tasteless rubbish.” — Eni (29)

“One of my exes was like cold semo. A disgusting, tasteless man and honestly a danger to my happiness. Thank God for deliverance.” — Aanu (24)

“Peppered ponmo. No value, no substance and no nutrients at all. Just pepper left and right.” — Dami (25)

“She was like custard. Very sweet but not a lot of substance. I don’t think we shared a lot of values even though we liked each other.” — Jide (29)

“He was like a big cup of ice cream. The only issue is I’m lactose intolerant so it led to mad heartache.” — Jemima (23)

“My lovely ex was like abacha. She was amazing, beautiful and people loved her but I couldn’t love her the way she deserved to be loved. For context, I can only have abacha in really small portions before I get tired of it.” — Wani (25)

If you don’t have any plans for Valentine’s yet, we have created the perfect plan for you to steal some love. Remember, love always finds a way: How to Plan A Valentine’s Day Heist, and Get Away With It

This holiday, you should treat yourself to experiences in beautiful locations in a way that won’t lead to financial higi-haga. In the spirit of giving, here are 12 spots in Lagos where you and your family can experience the best in food, nature, craft and outdoor activities.

This list includes locations on the Island and the mainland, and there’s something for everyone and every budget.

Fiora Garden, Ikeja

Set in the bustling city of Ikeja, Fiora Garden is a scenic ambient place to slow down while enjoying an amazing array of continental dishes, intercontinental dishes, desserts and cocktails.

Menu: classic burger, salad, seafood platter, fried calamari, t-bone steak, seafood linguine

Average spend: ₦20,000 – ₦40,000

Perks: Group-friendly, indoor and outdoor seating.

Average customer rating: 4.3

Location: 9 Sasegbon St, Ikeja GRA, Lagos.

Hakuna Matata Theme Park, Eko Atlantic

So you’ve got a large family with nieces, nephews and cousins who are determined to eat your money this holiday? Hakuna Matata Theme Park is the place to be. Situated at Eko Atlantic City, this park has many fun activities including rides, slides and a nursery option for smaller kids. It has everything to make your time memorable.

Perks: Full-day pass, custom inflatable rides, outdoor activity-driven.

Average spend: ₦20,000(weekdays), ₦25,000(weekends)

Location: Eko Atlantic City, Ahmadu Bello Way.

Average Customer Rating: 4.2

Sycamore by One Basket, Magodo Phase 2

If you’re looking to make your dining experience with your date a bit more intimate, look no further than Sycamore By One Basket. They’ve got an interesting selection of meals, including continental and local menus. Their breakfast and dessert menus also include items that children will enjoy.

Menu: Nkwobi, chicken wings, oha soup, English breakfast, hot dog meal.

Average spend: ₦6,500- ₦30,000

Perks: Intimate dining setting, group seating.

Average customer rating: 4.4

Location: 30a Bashiru Shittu Ave, Ikosi Ketu.

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Cafeteria, Victoria Island

This restaurant prides itself on having the best American brunch on the Island. Its cosy ambience, minimalistic interior design, and amazing food with generous portions make it a must-visit destination for you and your family this December.

Menu: Chicken mac and cheese, acai winter berry bowl, Chicago-style chicken and waffles.

Average spend: ₦10,000 – ₦20,000

Perks: Indoor seating, Intimate and cosy ambience.

Location: 16 Akin Adesola St, Victoria Island, Lagos.

Average customer rating: 4.4

Shodex Gardens, Ilupeju

Nestled in the heart of Ilupeju, Showdex Gardens offers a breath of fresh air without leaving the state. If your family members love nature, you owe them a visit to this spot for the Christmas and New Year celebrations.

The park has a pool, mini zoo, aquarium and lots of activities suitable for kids and adults.

Average spend: ₦5,00 – ₦10,000

Perks: Indoor and outdoor activities, pool.

Location: 251/253 Ikorodu road, Ilupeju.

Average customer rating: 4.0

Alice Garden, Ikeja

If you want to go into the looking glass from the comfort of Lagos, Alice Garden is the restaurant to head to. The location speaks for itself with decor that is reminiscent of the chaotic, yet endearing feel of the strange world Alice finds herself in when she falls down the rabbit hole.

Menu: Croaker fish in pepper sauce, bubble tea, Shangai fried noodles, shrimp fried rice.

Average spend: ₦15,000 – ₦20,000

Perks: Suitable for large gatherings.

Location: 57 Oduduwa way, Ikeja GRA.

Average customer rating: 4.3

Grey Matter, Victoria Island

Nestled in the heart of Victoria Island, Grey Matter is an ambient breath of fresh air offering unique, generous portions of amazing food. With three different floors in the building, you and yours can enjoy a different space or vibe every time you visit.

Menu: Dirty fries, smoked turkey, spicy chicken wings, plantain fritters.

Average spend: ₦15,000- ₦30,000

Perks: Gaming room, rooftop bar, suitable for large groups.

Location: 21c Akin Ogunlewe road, off Ligali Ayorinde street, Victoria Island.

Average customer rating: 4.3

Escape Room 33, Victoria Island

If you love a thrill and you think you have latent detective skills, try an escape room session with three or five friends. The Escape Room 33 promises thrilling team-oriented mind puzzles and high stakes.

Average spend: ₦4,000 (per player)

Perks: Indoor activity, thrilling theme.

Location: Silverbird Galleria, 133 Ahmadu Bello Way, Victoria Island.

Average customer rating: 4.7

Ceracerni’s Art Hub

Ceracerni’s Art Hub is the perfect place to go with your family if you want to do crafts and outdoor activities. The spot incorporates fun activities with paint and other mediums that encourage people to make art. Who knows? It may unlock the Picasso in you.

Average spend: ₦20,000 – ₦200,000

Perks: Accommodates large groups, free complimentary drinks and small chops.

Location: 65b Akintunde A. Adeyemi Dr, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos.

Average Customer Rating: 4.6

La Taverna, Victoria Island

La Taverna has the perfect colour scheme for your visit with loved ones. The restaurant boasts lush, green plants, whimsical decor, and an open bar. You’re sure to have a nice time here while getting your money’s worth of Spanish, Italian, and Mediterranean-style dishes.

Menu: seafood pasta, mushroom creamy soup, spaghetti bolognese

Average spend: ₦20,000 – ₦25,000

Perks: Outdoor seating, vegetarian options.

Location: 48 Balarabe Musa crescent, Victoria Island.
Average Customer rating: 4.3

It’s World Food Day, but we’re not exactly throwing a party to commemorate the occasion because at least 41.8 million people in Nigeria can no longer afford to eat. Countries like Afghanistan and Kenya would probably be celebrating a day like this because they are slowly making it out of the food insecurity trenches, but there isn’t much to celebrate in Nigeria because we’ve now unlocked a new level in the global Hunger Games.

I was going to drop a little “it is well” line here but the World Bank’s new report shows that things are in fact not well. According to the report, the United Nations (UN) goal to end extreme poverty by 2030 is no longer possible, and countries with extremely weak currencies like Nigeria are at the worst end of this possibility. Don’t quote me, but it’s Tinubu maths when I say that people are only going to get hungrier in the coming years.

So, while Americans stuff their mouths with McDonalds to celebrate World Food Day, this is what Nigerians are going to be eating today;

Empty promises

On Monday, October 14, the Federal Government told Nigerians that there’s light at the end of the tunnel but maybe I’m the one with shortsightedness because I can’t see shit. In July, President Bola Tinubu finally decided to address the rising cost of food in Nigeria by temporarily removing duty and value-added taxes on basic food. The plan was for this to kick off on July 15 and last till December 21, 2024.

Just when people were starting to get their hopes up that the tax removal would drastically make food cheaper and help Tinubu beat the “tone-deaf” accusations, our president ghosted- the plan never took off, food inflation increased to 39.53% in July, and Tinubu went back to his overused “it will get better soon” script.

Nothing

“I hope you’re hungry … for nothing”. Nobody can tell me that this isn’t Tinubu’s favourite pop culture reference. You wouldn’t understand how high food prices are today until you compare them to 2023 prices.

Even Nigerians who earn reasonably above the minimum wage are now struggling to afford food items that they could easily afford in 2023. We are so cooked (this one is not pun, it’s real life).

Tinubu’s multiple persona designs

Tpain once said? pic.twitter.com/MivNTjy61v
— LOOKING FOR EVIDENCE (@vibes4witty) October 14, 2024

The only “light at the end of the tunnel” that I’ve been seeing lately are the T-pain-inspired designs that started rolling in after President Tinubu told Nigerians to stop calling him T-pain. Nigerians might face another Twitter ban soon but we can all agree that the designs eat before we start looking for the best VPN.

I wish I could tell you that we’d be going back to those 2023 food prices soon but the inflation rate just increased for the first time in three months. I hate to break it to you but we’re going to be stuck with Nigeria’s food insecurity problem for a while.

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In this interview with Mariam “Mory Coco” Bakre, the popular creative and influencer, she explores her passion for cooking and her best recipes, detailing the best methods that guarantee great results. She also touches on her role as a Knorr Eativist and how that influences her dietary decisions. Join us as we peek into her mind as a Knorr Eativist.

Can you share a creative and healthy recipe that your family loves, and how did you come up with it?

Mory Coco: I wouldn’t call it a sweet treat, but I definitely love a good bowl of spicy tomato-based spaghetti! This dish was born from my desire to find a satisfying and healthy way to indulge my cravings. It hits all the right notes—fresh tomatoes cooked into a rich sauce with just the right amount of heat and perfectly cooked spaghetti, waiting to be topped with my favourite mix of veggies—bell peppers, carrots, and sometimes even spinach adds essential nutrients and a satisfying crunch. This meal is a perfect example of how healthy eating doesn’t have to be bland!

Can you share a creative and healthy recipe your family loves?

Mory Coco: A staple in our household is turkey pepper soup with boiled plantains. It’s incredibly easy to make, undeniably healthy, and bursting with flavour that everyone enjoys. You begin by sautéing aromatic ingredients like garlic, onion, and ginger. Chopped turkey is added and allowed to release its natural juices, further deepening the flavor profile. Next, add fresh habanero peppers and herbs and spices like rosemary and thyme. Add enough water to create a satisfying broth, followed by pepper soup spice mix, a Knorr seasoning cube, and a sprinkle of salt for balance. It’s ready to be enjoyed after simmering until the turkey reaches your desired tenderness! Then serve with a side of boiled plantains.

As a Knorr Eativist, what’s your favourite healthy ingredient swap in traditional recipes to make it fun and enticing?

Mory Coco: As a Knorr Eativist, I’m passionate about finding healthy swaps that don’t compromise taste! There’s a terrible misconception that healthy meals can’t taste good, and that’s definitely not true. For instance, when making jollof rice, I ditch the regular vegetable oil and swap it for olive oil. I sometimes go even further by using herb-infused olive oil with notes of rosemary, thyme, garlic, and chillies. This simple switch adds complexity and a delightful nutritional boost, making every bite delicious and good for you! It’s a perfect example of how small changes can impact healthy and flavorful cooking.

Discovering your babe has a work-spoon buddy can be distressing. Why should their coworker have a dedicated second spoon to create a lunchtime duo with your lover?

Here’s how to handle the situation before things get out of hand.

Encourage your lover to fast at work

No serious person will disregard a spiritual practice that would only make them succeed in 2024 just for food from a co-worker trying to get their attention. If they do, let them go.

Make the spoon go missing

Whether you have access to the second spoon or not, your problem is half-solved when it gets lost. But I hope your bae’s co-worker isn’t so invested that they get another spoon for your babe anyway.

Remind them that people get jazzed through food

Telling your babe to take their eyes off other people’s food isn’t a hard task. Simply remind them about their village people and they’ll be disciplined. If they’re wise, they’ll quickly shift focus from their colleague to only you and your loving meals.

Get them a lunchbox

Since food is your partner’s release clause, maybe you need to lock them down with a packed lunchbox or Tupperware. Put beans in one box, stir fry pasta in another and orishirishi in another. But you’d have to wake up at 4:50 a.m every morning to achieve this, so good luck to you.

Or just get them a finer spoon

Why stress when you can simply get your spouse a finer second spoon. Anytime they bring out the spoon you gave them, it’ll remind the work partner to look somewhere else. So make sure it’s bright gold.

Pray for your bae

If somehow, all of the above fail, and they’re still flexing the second spoon to eat with their co-worker, the matter is now in God’s hands.

Throw your bae away

A person who can’t leave their work spouse’s food alone despite your best efforts is beyond saving. Push them out and avoid the apparent love triangle. You’ve lost the fight.

Table of contents

What Is Bitter Kola and Why Is It So Popular?

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What Are the Nutrients Per Serving in Bitter Kola?

12 Health Benefits of Bitter Kola for Your Body and Mind

1. Fights Cold, Flu, and Sore Throat

2. Boosts Immunity

3. Increases Energy and Mental Alertness

4. Supports Liver and Kidney Health

5. Anti-inflammatory Properties

6. Improves Brain Function

7. Supports Heart Health

8. Acts as a Natural Antibiotic

9. May Help Lower Blood Sugar

10. Supports Weight Management

11. Aids Digestion

12. Supports Oral Health

5 Side Effects of Bitter Kola

1. May Raise Blood Pressure in Some People

2. Insomnia and Restlessness

3. Not Safe During Pregnancy or Breastfeeding

4. Gastrointestinal Upset

5. May Interact With Medications

How to Identify Quality Bitter Kola

How to Start Taking Bitter Kola

Final Thoughts

I didn’t grow up dreaming of marriage

Moving out of my family home after the wedding broke me

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The biggest fights we’ve had were about food, and they taught me how to actually listen

Marriage didn’t change me, adulthood did

We haven’t had to make big compromises — yet

This is Adelayo’s story as told to Betty

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Fiora Garden, Ikeja

Hakuna Matata Theme Park, Eko Atlantic

Sycamore by One Basket, Magodo Phase 2

Cafeteria, Victoria Island

Shodex Gardens, Ilupeju

Alice Garden, Ikeja

Grey Matter, Victoria Island

Escape Room 33, Victoria Island

Ceracerni’s Art Hub

La Taverna, Victoria Island

Empty promises

Nothing

Tinubu’s multiple persona designs

Can you share a creative and healthy recipe that your family loves, and how did you come up with it?

Can you share a creative and healthy recipe your family loves?

As a Knorr Eativist, what’s your favourite healthy ingredient swap in traditional recipes to make it fun and enticing?

Encourage your lover to fast at work

Make the spoon go missing

Remind them that people get jazzed through food

Get them a lunchbox

Or just get them a finer spoon

Pray for your bae

Throw your bae away