Carob Powder, derived from a tropical pod (Ceratonia siliqua), is often used as a substitute for cocoa powder. Even though, texturally different, the tropical powder, like cocoa, is well known for its benefits. The health benefits of carob powder are due to ‘Gallic acid’ present in carob tannins. Here are some of the prime health benefits and uses of carob powder…

Uses of Carob Powder

Carob was used as a sweetener and digestive aid in Ancient Egypt. Even today, it is used quite commonly in the food industry. It can also be used regularly in daily cooking. Here is a look at its 2 prime uses…

• Carob powder is naturally sweeter than cocoa powder. Although, It is does not have a flavor like chocolate still, it can be used as a good substitute in many recipes like bars, cookies, muffins, cakes, candies, etc.
• It is used as a stabilizer and thickener in food industry for salad dressings, mustard, sauces, cheese, baked products, canned meats, fish, etc.

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Benefits of using Carob instead of cocoa:

• Cocoa powder is extremely bitter, so it requires a large quantity of sugar to make it sweet that is not the case with carob. When cocoa is replaced with carob in recipes, it reduces the sugar content of food, in turn reducing the calorie content, leading to improved weight management.
• Carob powder does not contain caffeine, which makes it a perfect alternative for chocolate, as it is non-stimulant and non-addictive.

Health Benefits of Carob Powder

Apart from being a good substitute for chocolate, health benefits of Carob powder are manifold.

• Helps prevent cancer, especially cervical cancer and lung cancer
• Carob fiber reduces cholesterol levels especially LDL cholesterol
• Cures severe gastrointestinal problems like diarrhea, dysentery
• It has anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties
• Helps to improve digestion
• Contains active components that help control asthma and allergies
• It is a good expectorant, especially for smokers
• Can be used to treat anemia, cough, flu, and osteoclasis (treatment of skeletal deformity) due to its Vitamin E content
• It is an analgesic and antiseptic
• Carob powder contains tannins (Gallic acid) which helps treat polio among children
• Helps fight osteoporosis owing to its high phosphorus and calcium content
• Being caffeine free it is beneficial for people with high blood pressure and children
• Helps in bowel conditioning and colon cleansing
•  Beneficial as a thickening agent in foods for infants with gastro-esophageal reflux
• Possesses antioxidant and cytotoxic properties.

Are you a chocoholic, but are worried about your calorie intake? Do not fret! Learn How To Make Carob Chips, a perfect chocolate substitute that can be used to create an assortment of desserts. 

Image credits: ifood.tv