Side Effects of Eating Bitter Kola

In 1886, Dr. John S. Pemberton invented Coca-Cola, and you’ll be surprised to know that the first Coca-Cola syrup was made with extracts of the African bitter kola.

Although you can’t get that original taste of bitter kola in the Coca-Cola of today, anyone who knows the history of this renowned soda is well aware that the soda name was coined from the African bitter kola.

The bitter kola is certainly an intriguing seed, don’t you agree? One wonders why anyone would eat something so bitter. What benefits could this seed or plant possess?

The bitter kola and the kola nut are prominent in African culture, and there are many reasons for this.

The bitter kola apart from having cultural significance is quite beneficial to the human health.

Source: jdskitchen

Benefits of Bitter Kola

1. Bitter kola is used to fight infections. It can help with the common cold and infections as complex as hepatitis. It can also help with cough, bacterial infections, and viral infections.
2. Bitter kola might help with specific heart problems.
3. Bitter kola contains high potassium levels, which helps with inflammation, such as arthritis.
4. It may help with issues of hypoglycemia in people with type 2 diabetes.
5. It helps in strengthening the lung tissues.
6. It has a high antioxidant content.
7. It might help with malaria.

Side Effects of Eating Bitter Kola

Eating bitter kola has no particular side effect, but it must be reiterated that anything abused, even a good thing, will harm your body.

In such situations, bitter kola may cause irregular heartbeat and allergies.

As it is high in potassium, it should be taken cautiously. If abused, it can cause a spike in your potassium levels, leading to;

• Heart problems
• Tiredness
• Nausea
• Muscle pains and cramps
• It causes trouble breathing.

These side effects can be avoided if the bitter kola isn’t abused.

Disclaimer:

This article was not written or verified by a medical practitioner or nutritionist.

Please consult your primary healthcare provider for more information on bitter kola’s benefits and side effects.