Five effective benefits of consumption of carob

Carob, extracted from dried and roasted carob tree pods, is utilized as a natural sweetener and an alternative of cocoa powder. This has a variety of benefits in terms of lowering cholesterol, maintaining heart health, prevention of diarrhea, and others. As it does not contain any caffeine, the consumption over a long period of time will prevent different side effects of caffeine such as irritability, upset stomach, nervousness, insomnia, and others. The demand for carob powder is estimated to grow considerably with changes in lifestyle and health conscious people. From smoothies to ice-cream, carob has been utilized widely in preparation of various dessert dishes. According to the report published in Allied Market Research, the carob market is expected to reach $384.88 million by 2030. Following are some of the benefits of carob enlisted:

• No sodium content

Daily consumption of sodium may raise the risks of stroke, kidney issues, heart attack, blood pressure, and others. According to the statistics published by Mayo Clinic, an average intake of sodium by American people is nearly 3,400 mg. As per the American Heart Association, the daily dietary allowance for sodium is nearly 1,500 mg. This shows that an average American consumes more than double of the daily permitted limit. So, reducing the intake of sodium is necessary to keep heart conditions and other risks at bay. Consumption of carob, which does not contain sodium, will help people in maintaining low-sodium diet. The recommendation for carob from dietitians and physicians is increasing for its zero sodium content.

• High calcium content

Calcium plays a crucial role in maintaining the health of bones. Moreover, it helps in maintaining functionality of muscles, heart, and nerves. Only two tablespoons of carob powder offer 42 mg of calcium. The daily consumption of carob powder as an alternative of cocoa powder will help in maintaining and strengthening bone health. 

• High fiber content

Over 20 percent of the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) of daily fiber can be consumed with two teaspoons of carob powder. This will help in maintaining blood sugar levels and healthy bowels along with reducing cholesterol levels and preventing constipation. In a research study published in Plant Foods for Human Nutrition journal in 2010, the fibers found in carob can lower bad cholesterol for people having high cholesterol levels. Thus, it is beneficial for maintaining healthy conditions for its high fiber content.

• High source of antioxidants

Carob is source of polyphenol antioxidants that lower down oxidative stress. There are nearly 24 polyphenol compounds found in carob including flavonoids and gallic acid. Flavonoids contain anti-diabetic, anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective abilities. Moreover, gallic acid provides an ability to kill cancer cells. So, the consumption of carob will offer range of health benefits.

• Relief from diarrhea

Owing to high tannin content in carob, it is said to be a natural remedy for diarrhea. Administration of carob powder containing tannin-rich content acts as an oral rehydration fluid, and provides safety and effectiveness in treatment of acute-onset diarrhea in infants of age from 3 to 21 months.

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