Have you ever heard someone say, “Ponmo has no nutrients?” Well, that’s a big fat lie! 😂 If you’re pregnant (or planning to be), you might want to add this delicious cow skin delicacy to your meals—and here’s why!
Ponmo (cow skin) is a popular Nigerian ingredient loved for its chewy texture and ability to soak up delicious flavours from soups and stews. But beyond its taste, ponmo actually packs some surprising health benefits, especially for expecting mothers.
Let’s debunk the myths and explore five reasons why ponmo deserves a spot in your pregnancy diet!
1. Rich in Collagen for Stronger Skin & Joints
Your body is stretching, mama! Pregnancy can lead to skin stretching, joint pain, and even stretch marks. Ponmo is rich in collagen, a protein that:
✔️ Improves skin elasticity (helping reduce stretch marks).
✔️ Supports joint health, easing pregnancy-related aches.
✔️ Promotes wound healing, which is great postpartum.
Pro Tip: Pair ponmo with vitamin C-rich foods (like peppers or oranges) to boost collagen absorption!
2. Boosts Energy Levels
Pregnancy fatigue is real! But unlike sugary snacks that cause energy crashes, ponmo contains essential amino acids that release energy slowly. This helps you stay energised throughout the day without unnecessary sugar spikes.
Bonus: It’s a great protein source for vegetarians who still eat animal by-products.
3. Supports Bone Health
Your growing baby needs calcium and minerals for bone development—and so do you! Ponmo contains minerals like calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus, which help:
✔️ Strengthen your bones (pregnancy puts extra pressure on them!).
✔️ Support your baby’s skeletal growth.
Note: While ponmo isn’t as calcium-rich as dairy, it’s a good addition to a balanced diet.
4. Aids Digestion & Gut Health
Bloating and constipation are common pregnancy struggles. Luckily, the gelatin in ponmo promotes digestion by:
✔️ Supporting gut lining health.
✔️ Helping regulate bowel movements.
Pro Tip: Soft, well-cooked ponmo is easier to digest—perfect for sensitive pregnancy stomachs!
5. Low in Fat, High in Satisfaction
Unlike fatty meats that can lead to excessive weight gain, ponmo is low in fat but keeps you full longer. This makes it a great choice for mamas who want to:
✔️ Manage healthy weight gain during pregnancy.
✔️ Avoid heavy, greasy foods that cause discomfort.
How Do You Prefer Your Ponmo?
Now, the real debate begins! Do you like your ponmo:
🔥 Soft and spongy (melts in your mouth)?
🍖 Thick and crunchy (with a bit of chewiness)?
Hit reply and let’s settle this once and for all! 😂
Final Thoughts
Ponmo isn’t just a tasty addition to your soups—it’s a pregnancy-friendly food with real health benefits! From boosting collagen for skin elasticity to aiding digestion, this underrated ingredient deserves more credit.
Did any of these benefits surprise you? Share this with a pregnant friend who loves ponmo—they’ll thank you later!
