Description
Latin Name : Ceratonia Siliqua
Carob (unsweetened) is a low-calorie, naturally sweet alternative to chocolate. It is rich in filling fiber and low in fat.
The health benefits of carobs are mainly attributed to their vitamin and mineral content, like calcium, zinc, potassium, phosphorus, vitamin K, riboflavin, and vitamin E, as well as its natural antioxidants.
Carob can help prevent spikes in blood sugar and be a safe dietary choice for diabetics. This is why it is so often used as a replacement for chocolate in various cultures because it also provides protein and fiber that chocolate lacks.
As a rich source of dietary fiber, carob can help the digestive activities of the body. Fiber bulks up bowel movements and stimulates regularity, as well as the secretion of gastric juices and peristaltic motion. All of this combines into a healthier digestive system while helping prevent more serious gastrointestinal conditions.
The fiber found in carob is somewhat special, in that it inhibits the secretion of postprandial ghrelin, a hormone that tells the body that it is hungry, occasionally released after eating. This means that carob can reduce the chances of overeating, and therefore aid in weight loss attempts.
It has also been shown to be highly effective against high cholesterol.
