Move over, Med diet – plantains and cassava can be as healthy as tomatoes and olive oil, say researchers | Global development

Researchers advocate for the inclusion of plantains, cassava, and fermented banana drink in global healthy eating guidelines, highlighting the positive effects of the traditional Tanzanian diet on the immune system and inflammation markers. A study found that switching from a heritage diet to a western-style diet increased inflammatory markers and weight, while reverting to heritage foods had anti-inflammatory benefits. With rising non-communicable diseases in Africa, the researchers stress the urgency of documenting and promoting African heritage diets before they are lost to westernization.