21 Carob Health Benefits: This Vegan Food Contains 3x Times More Calcium Than Milk
Calcium and milk are two concepts inextricably linked in our minds, however, there are many foods that contain more calcium than milk.
One of them is carob (Ceratonia siliqua), also known as ”healthy chocolate”, which contains 3x times the amount of calcium than milk. This “humble” food gives us 350mg of calcium per 100g, while milk gives us only 120-130 mg of calcium per 100g – and these not well digestible in the case of pasteurized cow’s milk.
In addition, carob contains group B vitamins and beta-carotene minerals (potassium, magnesium, calcium, phosphorus) and trace elements (iron, manganese, copper, chromium, nickel).
It also contains tannins, fibrous substances such as lignin which has a sedative effect on cholesterol, has positive effects on blood glucose level, and is used against diabetes mellitus and obesity. It is rich in fiber that helps in the proper functioning of the intestine and the digestion of food.
Carob consumption contributes to the treatment of allergic asthma and soothes coughs and colds, while it is also ideal for dieters, as it contains minimal fat and fewer calories than chocolate.
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Carob Powder Nutrition Data – Serving Size 1 tbsp (6g)
Carob Powder is the most used form of Carob consumption. Best Carob Powder on the market (according to marketplace data) is Carob Powder by NOW Real Food.
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Total Fat | 0 g | 0 % |
| Sodium | 2.1 mg | 0 % |
| Total Carbohydrate | 5.3 g | 2 % |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.4 g | 9 % |
| Sugar | 2.9 g | – |
| Protein | 0.3 g | 1 % |
| Vitamin D | 0.00mcg | 0 % |
| Calcium | 20.88mg | 2 % |
| Iron | 0.18mg | 1 % |
| Potassium | 50mg | 1% |
Carob Health Benefits
- Nutrition: Carob is a sweet and healthy substitute for chocolate. It has twice the amount of calcium, no caffeine, no gluten, and high fiber.
- Heart Health: Adding or substituting carob into your diet can help lower your cholesterol and reduce your risk of heart disease.
- Digestive Health: Carob can ease stomach issues and treat diarrhea.
- Weight Management: People who add carob to their diet have seen benefits like weight loss1.
- Antioxidants: Like cocoa, carob contains polyphenols, which are antioxidants known to reduce the risk of heart disease.
- Low in Fat and Sodium: Carob powder contains virtually no fat and no sodium, making it a good option for low-fat and low-sodium diet.
- Calcium Source: Carob is a good source of calcium, but unlike cocoa, it contains no oxalates, compounds that reduce your body’s ability to absorb calcium.
- High in Fiber: Carob is high in fiber, which can help you stay fuller longer, prevent constipation, maintain healthy bowels, control your blood sugar, and lower your cholesterol.
- Gluten-free: Carob is a great option for people with celiac disease or those who are sensitive to gluten.
- Soothing Vocal Cords: 19th-century British chemists sold carob pods to singers. Chewing on carob pods helped singers maintain healthy vocal cords and soothe and cleanse their throat.
- Skin Care and Medications: Carob is used in many skin care products and medications. It’s usually labeled as C. siliqua, which is the scientific name for carob gum. The gum comes from the seeds, which are 35 percent gum. Carob gum is mainly used in cosmetics as an adhesive or binder, a stabilizer for liquids, a fragrance, and a texture enhancer.
- Low in Sodium: Carob powder contains no sodium. It’s a great option for people following a low-sodium diet.
- Regulating Blood Sugar Levels: Carob helps to regulate blood sugar levels.
- Promoting Bone Health: Carob promotes bone health.
- Promoting Weight Loss: Carob promotes weight loss.
- Possibly Improving Sleep Quality: Carob might help improve sleep quality.
- Possibly Preventing Cancer: Carob might help prevent cancer.
- Boosting Immune System: Carob helps to promote the immune system.
- Preventing Cardiovascular Diseases: Carob helps prevent cardiovascular diseases.
- Slowing Down Aging: Carob helps slow down aging.
- Preventing Diabetes: Carob helps prevent diabetes.
Is Carob Healthier Than Chocolate?
Carob and chocolate are often compared due to their similar uses in cooking and baking. Both have unique flavors, but they also differ significantly in terms of nutritional content.
Carob comes from the pod of a tree that grows along the Mediterranean Sea, and it’s naturally sweet. It contains less fat and fewer calories than chocolate. Carob is also caffeine-free, making it a good option for those who are sensitive to stimulants or looking to reduce their caffeine intake.
In terms of health benefits, carob is rich in fiber and calcium. The high fiber content can aid digestion while its calcium content supports bone health.
On the other hand, chocolate – especially dark chocolate – has antioxidants called flavonoids which have been linked to heart health benefits. However, chocolate usually contains added sugar and fat which can increase calorie count.
So whether carob is healthier than chocolate really depends on what you’re looking for. If you want a lower-calorie treat without caffeine, carob might be your best bet. But if you’re seeking antioxidant benefits (and can manage portion control), then a small amount of dark chocolate could be beneficial.
Bottom Line
So, what do you think about carob? Are you ready to ditch milk in favor of this? Let us know you thoughts in the comments section below.
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