Carob Benefits and Uses
Carob is a fruit tree that grows in pods like peas that are produce pulp and seeds, which are make into a molasses or dried into a powder. It is a natural sweetener grown in the wild usually in the Mediterranean climate. The trees are either male or female and the female trees can produce 100s of pounds of carob pods once fertilized. Carob has been used for thousands of years for their health benefits, but it also tastes delicious eaten in various ways.
Lets begin with the benefits. The active compounds in carob are polyphenols, tannins, dietary fiber and sugars, and have anti inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties. These have been found to be very important to the gastrointestinal tract and digestive system. The antioxidant properties are beneficial for inhibiting the free radical exposure that damage cells. Carob is both gluten-free, dairy-free and caffeine-free, if you have sensitivities to those or chose to follow these diets. Carob also is high in vitamins A and Bs and minerals, such as, calcium, magnesium, potassium, zinc, manganese, and others.
As previously mentioned, since carob is naturally high in fiber and has no caffeine, it’s ideal for people with high blood pressure. The low sugar and fat content also makes it a great dietary addition or chocolate substitution for people looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle. The high levels of vitamins, such as vitamins A and B-2, are good for your skin and eye health. Adding or substituting carob into you day to day diet can even help lower your cholesterol, reduce the risk of heart disease, ease GI issues.
And why not enjoy the benefits when it tastes great too. Carob molasses is used as a natural sweetener in dessert recipes. In the Middle East, we mix it with equal parts (more or less with preference) with tahini paste. This makes a delicious, healthy snack with pita bread. Some other ideas include mixing in baking of cakes or brownies, or into protein balls for a quick nutritious bite. Check out our recipe page for ideas for Carob molasses uses.
Purchase our zero sugar Little Village Carob Molasses here:
