Zobo (Zoborodo) is a Nigerian beverage made from dried Roselle plant flowers. The drink is also known as Roselle drink and called Sorrel drink in the Carribean. Zobo is one of the most consumed beverages in the world, ranging from Africa to Asia, Europe, America, etc. and it is served in various homes and restaurants. Zobo is not just a delicious drink as several studies have uncovered the myriads of health benefits it comes with. The nutritional analysis of this non-alcoholic drink shows that it is a good source of Vitamin C, calcium, magnesium, potassium and iron.
Humans can’t live without blood. Without blood, the body’s organs will not get the oxygen and nutrients they need to survive, we cannot keep warm or cool off, fight infections, or get rid of our own waste products. Without enough blood, we will become weak and die.
What Is Blood and What Does It Do?
Blood brings oxygen and nutrients to all the parts of the body so they can keep working. Blood carries carbon dioxide and other waste materials to the lungs, kidneys, and digestive system to be removed from the body. Blood also fights infections, and carries hormones around the body.
Blood is made up of blood cells and plasma. Plasma is a yellowish fluid that has nutrients, proteins, hormones, and waste products. The different types of blood cells are:
Red blood cells: Red blood cells a protein that carries oxygen. Blood gets its bright red color when hemoglobin picks up oxygen in the lungs. As the blood travels through the body, the hemoglobin releases oxygen to the different body parts.
White blood cells: Are a key part of the immune system. The immune system helps the body defend itself against infection. Different types of white blood cells (WBCs) fight germs, such as bacteria and viruses. Some types of WBCs make antibodies, which are special proteins that recognize foreign materials and help the body get rid of them.
Platelets: Platelets are tiny oval-shaped cells that help in the clotting process. When a blood vessel breaks, platelets gather in the area and help seal off the leak. Platelets work with proteins called clotting factors to control bleeding inside our bodies and on our skin. SEE: Best Blood Tonic For Weight Gain In Nigeria
Does Zobo Drink Give Blood?
Not in the literal sense but zobo drink contributes in many ways to boost blood production as a result of its content. Here is how zobo drink boost blood Production;
Iron: Zobo drink is an excellent source of iron and many other minerals. Iron is an essential element for blood production. Iron helps form and oxygenate our blood cells and haemoglobin. One of the most important functions of iron is in heme synthesis, which forms haemoglobin, a protein found in red blood cells. Haemoglobin’s primary role is to transport oxygen from the lungs to body tissues to maintain basic life functions. Without healthy red blood cells, your body can’t get enough oxygen, and this can result in you feeling increasingly tired or exhausted.
Vitamin C: The vitamin C content of zobo drink also helps increase the absorption of iron from the intestines for red blood cells production. In addition, vitamin C helps encourage the production of white blood cells known as lymphocytes and phagocytes, which help protect the body against infection.
Magnesium: Zobo drink is a good source of magnesium, studies have shown that long-term, low-magnesium diets result in lower content of the mineral in red blood cells. Magnesium is a cofactor in more than 300 enzyme systems that regulate diverse biochemical reactions in the body, including protein synthesis, muscle and nerve function, blood glucose control, and blood pressure regulation.
Calcium: Calcium is one of the most important minerals for the human body. Zobo drinks are a good source of calcium which are required for blood clotting. Blood clotting occurs at the point of injury to control bleeding from blood vessels. The coagulation of the blood is initiated by the blood platelets. Calcium ions are required for the promotion or acceleration of blood clotting pathways.
Potassium: Zobo drink also increases the ability of blood to clot, due to its potassium content. However, it doesn’t “thicken” blood it simply increases release of clotting factors that help the blood to clot. Potassium is also essential for the body’s ability to contract muscle, including the heart muscle. This helps your heart which is responsible for pumping blood round the body to function properly. Zobo Recipes: How To Make Zobo With Watermelon, Dates and Banana
