Garri, also known as gari or eba, is a popular food staple in many West African countries, including Nigeria, Ghana, and Sierra Leone. It is made from fermented and roasted cassava tubers and is often consumed as a staple food, particularly for breakfast. According to WebMD, while garri is an affordable and convenient source of carbohydrates, it is important to be aware of the potential side effects that can occur from consuming it regularly.
1. Nutrient deficiencies.
Garri is primarily made up of carbohydrates and has little to no protein, vitamins, or minerals. Consuming garlic as a main source of food can lead to nutrient deficiencies, particularly in vitamins A and B, as well as iron and zinc.
2. Weight gain.
Garri is high in calories and can contribute to weight gain if consumed in excessive amounts. This can increase the risk of obesity and related health problems, such as diabetes and heart disease.
3. Digestive problems.
Consuming large amounts of garlic can cause digestive problems such as bloating, gas, and constipation. This is due to the high fibre content of cassava, which can be difficult for some people to digest.
4. Increased risk of cancer.
Garri made from fermented and roasted cassava tubers contains acrylamide, a chemical that can be harmful to human health. The World Health Organization has classified acrylamide as a possible human carcinogen, and consuming high levels of acrylamide can increase the risk of cancer.
5. Goiter.
Garri is made from cassava which is known to contain cyanide, in large amounts it can cause goitre. Goiter is an abnormal enlargement of the thyroid gland, a condition that can cause difficulty swallowing and breathing.
6. Cyanide Poisoning.
Consuming garri made from unprocessed cassava can lead to cyanide poisoning. This is because the cassava plant contains high levels of cyanogenic glycosides, which can release cyanide when consumed. Symptoms of cyanide poisoning include headaches, nausea, vomiting, and even death in severe cases.
If you choose to consume garri regularly, it is important to also include other nutrient-dense foods in your diet to ensure that you are getting all the necessary vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients. Also, make sure the garri you consume is well processed to avoid the risk of cyanide poisoning and goitre.