What Does Zobo Do To The Body? Benefits And Risks
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In our earlier article, we talked about the many health benefits of Zobo, like improving fertility and boosting your immune system. In this article, we will answer the big question: “What does Zobo do to the body?”
Table of Contents
Key Points:
- Nutrition-wise, Zobo contains Vitamin C as well as phosphorus, calcium, and iron, which are important for healthy blood formation.
- Zobo without sugar is naturally low in calories, making it good for weight loss.
- Zobo drinks can sometimes interfere with medications, especially those for blood pressure, malaria and diabetes.
- Drinking large amounts of Zobo may cause liver damage.
- To avoid these risks, Speak with an Expert Doctor if you’re not sure Zobo drink is right for you.
Zobo is a drink made from dried hibiscus leaves and is one of the most popular drinks in Nigeria. People love it because it is tasty, refreshing, and healthy.
However, what Zobo does to your body goes beyond just being a delicious drink. It has both health benefits and potential side effects.
As you read on, we will discuss both the good and the not-so-good (side effects) of Zobo drink to the body. Whether you already love Zobo or are just curious, you will learn something new here.
What’s in Zobo?
Zobo is made from dried hibiscus leaves, also known as Roselle, sorrel tea, or “zoborodo” by the Northerners (Hausas).
These leaves are the main ingredient and give the drink its rich red colour and tangy taste. Other common ingredients added to Zobo include ginger, cloves, and sometimes pineapple or citrus fruits to enhance the flavour.
When it comes to nutrition, what Zobo does to your body is impressive. It contains Vitamin C, which helps boost your immune system, as well as phosphorus, calcium, and iron, which are important for healthy blood.
Also, Zobo is rich in antioxidants, which protect your body from harmful substances called free radicals. It is naturally low in calories, especially if you avoid adding too much sugar or sweeteners.
Benefits of Zobo to the Body
What Zobo does for your body’s health is amazing. It helps lower blood pressure, improves digestion, and boosts the immune system with its high Vitamin C content. The drink is also great for weight management, supports liver detox, balances blood sugar levels, and keeps the skin healthy thanks to its antioxidants.
Benefits of Zobo to Men
Zobo is packed with health benefits that every man should know about. Whether you’re looking to boost your energy, improve your heart health, or even enhance your bedroom performance, zobo has something to offer.
1. Boosts Libido and Sexual Health
Did you know that zobo might help with blood circulation? Proper blood flow is essential for sexual performance and stamina. Some studies suggest that the antioxidants and minerals in zobo may enhance blood circulation, which could naturally improve libido. If you’re looking for a natural way to spice things up, drinking zobo might just do the trick!
2. Supports Heart Health
Heart disease is a major concern for men, especially as they age. The good news? Zobo helps lower blood pressure thanks to its high levels of anthocyanins (a type of antioxidant). If you struggle with hypertension or high cholesterol, drinking zobo regularly may help keep your heart strong and healthy.
3. Helps with Weight Management
Trying to lose belly fat? Zobo is a great low-calorie drink that can help with fat metabolism. It contains compounds that may block the production of amylase, an enzyme responsible for absorbing carbohydrates. This means your body stores less fat, making it easier to maintain a healthy weight.
4. Improves Prostate Health
Men over 40 often face prostate health concerns. The antioxidants in zobo may help reduce inflammation and protect prostate cells from damage. While it’s not a cure for prostate issues, drinking zobo regularly could lower your risk of prostate-related complications.
Benefits of Zobo to a Woman
Ladies, if you’re looking for a natural way to stay healthy, regulate your hormones, and keep your skin glowing, zobo might just be your new best friend. Here’s why every woman should consider making zobo a part of her daily routine.
1. Regulates Menstrual Cycle and Eases Cramps
Zobo has been linked to hormonal balance, which can be a game-changer for women who experience irregular periods or painful cramps. The natural properties in hibiscus may relax the uterus, reducing menstrual pain and promoting a more regular cycle.
2. Boosts Fertility
If you’re trying to conceive, adding zobo to your diet might be helpful. It contains essential vitamins and minerals that support reproductive health. Plus, the antioxidants in zobo help fight free radicals, which can improve egg quality and overall fertility.
3. Aids in Digestion and Weight Loss
Want to keep your tummy flat? Zobo improves digestion by increasing the production of digestive enzymes, helping to prevent bloating and constipation. It’s also a natural metabolism booster, meaning it can help burn fat more efficiently.
4. Keeps Your Skin Glowing and Youthful
Zobo is rich in Vitamin C, which helps promote collagen production (the key to smooth, firm skin). If you want to slow down aging, reduce wrinkles, and maintain a radiant glow, sipping on zobo regularly can do wonders for your skin.
Zobo is a super drink for women, helping with everything from period pain to glowing skin. Just be careful with added sugar.Stick to natural sweeteners like honey, pineapple or dates for maximum health benefits.
Should I Drink Zobo Everyday?
Whether you’re a man or a woman, zobo is a nutrient-rich and tasty drink that offers multiple health benefits. Just remember:
- Drink without too much sugar
- Have it in moderation
- Combine it with a healthy lifestyle for best results
If you want to learn how to prepare delicious Zobo drinks without sugar, check out our detailed article on the topic here. It outlines a step-by-step guide for preparing Zobo without sugar or artificial flavours.
Can Zobo Have Any Side Effects?
While what Zobo does is largely beneficial, drinking too much can have some side effects. Some of which include:
1. Low Blood Pressure
Zobo is known for its ability to lower blood pressure. While this is great for people with high blood pressure, those with low blood pressure should be cautious, as it could make it worse.
2. Interference with Medications
Zobo drinks can sometimes interfere with medications, especially those for blood pressure and diabetes. It may reduce the effectiveness of chloroquine (used to treat malaria) and captopril (used for high blood pressure). Additionally, drinking large amounts of Zobo may cause liver damage. To avoid these risks, consult a doctor, especially if you’re taking any medications.
3. Possible Allergic Reactions
Some people may be allergic to hibiscus or other ingredients in Zobo, like ginger or cloves. If you experience symptoms like itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing, stop drinking it and seek medical attention.
4. Too Much Sugar
If you add too much sugar or artificial sweeteners, what Zobo does to your body could include increasing calorie intake, which may not be ideal for people managing their weight or blood sugar levels.
5. May Delay Puberty
Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a doctor before drinking Zobo. A study on animals showed that what Zobo does to offspring may include weight gain, delayed puberty, and increased body mass. Another study in suggested hibiscus tea might delay puberty, but more research is needed to confirm these effects on humans.
6. May Cause Miscarriage
Hibiscus tea, including Zobo, may have negative effects on pregnant women. A study found that what Zobo does might include increasing liver enzyme production, which could lead to low-birth-weight babies. Because of these risks, Public Health Nigeria advises women to avoid drinking Zobo during pregnancy.
How to Make Zobo Drink at Home
Here’s a simple recipe to make your own Zobo drink and experience what Zobo can do for yourself:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of dried hibiscus petals (Zobo leaves)
- 4-5 cups of water
- 1-2 cups of pineapple juice (optional, for extra flavour)
- 1-2 tablespoons of ginger (optional, for a spicy kick)
- 1-2 cups of date powder or honey (adjust to taste)
- Cloves (optional, for added flavour)
- A few slices of lime or lemon (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Rinse the Hibiscus Petals
Start by rinsing the dried hibiscus petals under cold water to remove any dirt or dust. - Boil the Water
Pour 4-5 cups of water into a pot to a boil. Add the rinsed hibiscus petals and let them cook for about 10-15 minutes. The water will turn red as the petals release their colour. - Add Flavour
Once the petals have boiled, add ginger, cloves, and pineapple juice (if using). Let it simmer for another 5-10 minutes to mix the flavours together. - Sweeten the Zobo
After boiling, take the pot off the heat and strain out the hibiscus petals and spices. While the liquid is still warm, add dates powder or honey to taste and stir until it dissolves completely. You can also add sugar if you wish. - Cool and Serve
Let the Zobo cool to room temperature, then refrigerate it to chill. Once it’s cold, serve it over ice with slices of lime or lemon for a refreshing touch.
Conclusion
Zobo is more than just a delicious and refreshing drink; it’s a natural beverage packed with health benefits. From boosting your immune system to improving digestion and heart health, Zobo is a great addition to your daily routine. However, like any other drink, it’s important to be mindful of its potential side effects and drink it in moderation.
What Zobo does for your body depends on how it’s consumed—enjoyed in the right amounts, it can be a healthy and beneficial drink.
Whether you’re making it at home or enjoying it from a local vendor, Zobo is a great way to stay hydrated and healthy. So, next time you take a sip of this vibrant drink, think about what Zobo does to support your overall well-being. Enjoy it responsibly, and as always, consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding or on any medication.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can a kidney patient drink Zobo?
Zobo can help improve kidney function by flushing out waste like phosphate,sodium, citrate,uric acid, and tartrate through urine. However, it’s important to talk to a doctor for expert medical advice.
2. Is it good to drink Zobo every day?
Zobo contains carotene, which the body turns into Vitamin A. This vitamin is important for healthy eyes. Drinking Zobo regularly can improve your vision and help prevent problems like night blindness. However, seek medical advice to better understand what Zobo do for your body with daily consumption.
3. Can I take Zobo while breastfeeding?
There isn’t much research on how Zobo affects pregnant women. Some animal studies have shown negative effects. So, breastfeeding mothers should seek a doctor’s advice before drinking Zobo.
4. Does Zobo lower blood pressure?
Research shows that drinking Zobo may help lower blood pressure. This is because hibiscus petals contain natural compounds like anthocyanin and flavonoids, which help relax blood vessels and improve blood flow.
5. Is Zobo good for the heart?
Heart attacks and high blood pressure increase the risk of heart disease. However, Zobo is a low-calorie drink that contains flavonoids, natural compounds that help lower blood pressure and protect the heart from cardiovascular diseases.
References
J.C Osueke,F.N Ehirim.(2008)
Chemical, Nutritional and Sensory Analysis of Zobo Drink (Var Sabdariffa) and Selected Soft Drinks
Iruoghene Edo a b, Princess Oghenekeno Samuel,et.al…(2023)
Eghosa Iyare,O.A Adegoke.(2010)
Charles Nnanna,Joyce O..et.al…
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