Dr Somi Igbene is a biomedical scientist and registered associate nutritionist with the association for nutrition. She holds a bachelor’s degree (first-class honours) in Biomedical Science from Kings College London, a master’s degree (distinction) in Human Nutrition from St Mary’s University Twickenham, and a PhD in cell and molecular immunology from Imperial College London. Somi is passionate about promoting health and wellness in the Black community. She has a keen interest in type 2 diabetes, sickle cell anaemia, and weight management.
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Dietary Fat: Functions, Requirements and Healthy Sources
Read moreFat is likely the most feared macronutrient. How many times have you avoided eating an avocado, adding oil to your dressings or cooking with butter or coconut oil for fear of weight gain or heart disease? Trust me, you’re not alone! With guidelines insisting that we avoid fat like the plague, it’s no wonder many of us constantly seek high-sugar foods to fill the void – a far worse option…
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Tofu in Sweet Chilli Sauce with Stir-fried Veggies
Read moreTofu, a great alternative to meat and chicken, is protein-rich, low-fat and cholesterol-free. Tofu in sweet chilli sauce is a delicious mid-week recipe for the family. It pairs perfectly with stir-fried vegetables and steamed rice. Let’s explore the Nutritional Highlights of Tofu in Sweet Chilli Sauce 1 | Protein: Protein is crucial for cell and tissue repair, immune and bone health. Aim to eat at least 25g of protein per…
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Egusi (Melon Seeds): Health & Nutrition Benefits
Read moreEgusi seeds come from bitter apple fruits. They are cholesterol-free and rich in essential fatty acids, antioxidants and minerals, and possess superior medicinal and nutritional benefits. Egusi, also known as bitter apple seed, is native to Africa, Asia, Arab, and some Mediterranean countries. People in Asia and the Middle East use egusi plants, fruits, and seeds to treat a variety of conditions including intestinal disorders, bacterial infections, jaundice, asthma, and diabetes. However,…
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Aubergine and Broccoli Curry with Bulgur Wheat
Read moreAubergine and Broccoli Curry with Bulgur Wheat is a light, yet filling dish that is perfect for your lunch box and equally great for dinner. As of 2017, only 29% of adults and 18% of children in the UK were consuming the recommended five portions of fruits and vegetables. In the USA, according to the CDC’s Morbidity and Mortality Report, only 10% of adults meet this requirement. The statistics in…
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Does diet affect sickle cell?
Read moreHave you often wondered if diet affects sickle cell disease? If so, the short answer is yes – diet affects sickle cell disease. That said, research into diet and sickle cell disease is limited. But current evidence shows that diet affects your growth, development, immunity and the severity of sickle cell crisis episodes. In this blog post, I share the evidence for diet’s beneficial role in sickle cell disease, the…