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Achi is a versatile condiment in soups endemic to the Eastern region of Nigeria. Achi seeds are used to prepare soups or as a thickener for other dishes. This article will outline the benefits and components of achi soup during pregnancy.
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What is achi?
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Achi is a dry, flat seed known as Akpa in Akwa Ibom and Calabar. The brownish seeds are ground and used as a thickener in soups and other dishes. Achi seeds are also a popular seasoning in oha soup. You can use achi seeds to prepare Achi soup with a smooth and sticky texture.Â
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Health benefits of achi soup in pregnancy
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- Promotes heart health: Achi soup has lipid-lowering abilities. This means that achi may help reduce fat build caused by bad cholesterols (low-density lip proteins) in your heart. This bad cholesterol is responsible for most heart diseases that block arteries and blood and oxygen flow to your heart.
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- Promotes wound healing: It contains antibacterial and wound healing properties due to the vitamin C component.
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- Analgesic properties: Achi helps to minimise pain by blocking the transmission of pain signals to your brain. It also blocks inflammatory agents that cause inflammation in the body.Â
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Does achi soup have any side effects in pregnancy?
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Some mild side effects include headache, nausea, dizziness, or upset stomach.
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How to prepare achi soup
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Ingredients:
Assorted meat
Ground achi seeds
Ugwu or uziza leavesÂ
Ground pepper
Salt
Seasoning cubes
Crayfish
Palm oil
Dry fish
Stockfish
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Procedure:
- Wash your assorted meat, stock fish, and dry fish and place them in a pot
- Season with your seasoning cubes and salt
- Boil till your meat is tender. You may remove your stock and dry fish to prevent them from getting too soft before your meat cooks properly.Â
- Add your stock fish, dry fish, crayfish, chopped onions, and pepper to your pot
- Add your ground achi seeds and stir for a few minutes. Add more achi if the consistency is watery
- Add your ugwu, uziza, or bitter leaf and cook for an extra 5 minutesÂ
- Your soup is ready. Serve hot with any swallow of your choice.
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Achi soup is a powerhouse of nutrients essential for your baby’s development. Achi seeds have tremendous benefits in pregnancy, which you can indulge. Serve with any swallow of your choice and enjoy.Â
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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- Is achi soup safe in pregnancy?
Achi soup is safe in pregnancy with no side effects. It is safe and healthy.
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- Can achi soup cause a miscarriage in pregnancy?
There are no reports of achi consumption causing a miscarriage. However, if you're in your first trimester or have had a previous miscarriage, eat in moderation.
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- Does achi soup have any side effects in pregnancy?
Achi soup only has side effects based on factors like allergies and reactions.Â
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