Here’s what you need to know about Carob:
The carob plant is an evergreen flowering shrub native to the Mediterranean region. Cultivated for its edible seeds and most commonly sold in powder form in health food stores, carob is best known for its similar taste to that of chocolate: sweet, as well as slightly nutty. As such, carob is commonly used as a chocolate substitute in baked good and beverage recipes.
Although organic, raw dark chocolate is highly beneficial (we all know of chocolate’s high antioxidant count by now!), carob makes the perfect alternative for those sensitive/allergic to chocolate or who simply want to reduce their fat and calorie intake, as carob contains significantly lower amounts of both (1 ounce of carob flour contains 0 grams of fat whereas 1 ounce of unsweetened chocolate contains 15 grams of fat).
Below are seven other awesome benefits of this chocolate-like superfood:
1. It can help prevent osteoporosis: Due to the plant’s rich phosphorus and calcium mineral content, carob helps build and protect strong bones.
2. It’s caffeine and theobromine-free: Unlike chocolate, carob contains neither caffeine nor theobromine, another stimulant which affects the human body similarly to caffeine (and also found in chocolate). As such, carob is a great choice for those with high blood pressure.
3. It improves digestion: Carob has been found to improve intestinal health due to its high fiber content, thus enhancing our digestion.
4. It helps prevent lung cancer: Studies show that regular use of carob supports lung health.
5. It’s anti-bacterial, antiviral, and antiseptic: Carob contains Gallic acid which kills bacteria, viruses, as well as provide antioxidants, providing further protection for our bodies.
5. It helps fight colds, coughs, and the flu: In addition to Carob’s antibacterial and antiviral properties, Carob is rich in vitamin E, which is also essential for beating these health ailments to the boot.
6. It treats diarrhea: Carob contains binding qualities once it’s reached the colon and has the ability to draw water to itself, stopping diarrhea.
7. It enhances sexual vitality: Carob has also been found to increase sperm count in men.
Incorporate carob in your diet by adding carob powder to smoothies, oats, yogurt (or make mouthwatering carob-fudge brownies like these.)
