The Benefits Of Carob Seeds

Known for its medicinal virtues, prized by the food industry, carob is in full seduction operation. Known since Antiquity, carob is a plant with many virtues and uses. It is making a comeback today, especially in slimming diets! Let’s discover together, the benefits of carob seeds!

Usually in powder or paste, carob necessarily resembles cocoa. This legume from the Middle East is little known in our latitudes. However, it has many benefits which it would be a shame to deprive yourself of.

What is carob?

Carob is a pod that can be between 10 cm and 30 cm in size. It grows on the carob tree, a tree that grows all around the Mediterranean.

The essential constituents of the carob tree are mainly in the fleshy parts that separate the seeds inside the pods. These parts contain around 7% protein, 35% starch, 40% sugars such as sucrose and glucose, as well as fiber of up to 50%. There are also mineral salts, tannins (between 16 and 20%) and a small amount of fat.

Carob is generally consumed in powder or gum form. Locust bean gum turns into a sort of gel after absorption. It takes up space in the stomach by swelling with water. This phenomenon has the effect of slowing down the assimilation of food and nutrients. Thus, carob acts on the enzymes responsible for digestion such as lipases, trypsins and amylases.

The Benefits Of Carob Seeds

Carob has multiple benefits. Today, its appetite suppressant effects are particularly sought after by people who want to lose weight, but this is not the only virtue of carob! Discover all the benefits of carob!

–weight loss

Carob has a naturally rich formula which makes it an exceptional ally for weight loss, particularly effective in cases of overweight. By promoting weight loss, carob inhibits certain digestive enzymes and provides a pleasant feeling of satiety in those who consume it. In addition to being rich in nutrients, carob limits the feeling of hunger, which helps to avoid compulsive snacking while trying to follow a diet. Thanks to its effects, carob has established itself as an essential ingredient in many slimming programs.

–For digestive disorders

Carob seeds are of great use in relieving various digestive and gastrointestinal disorders such as digestion difficulties, diarrhea, constipation, heartburn, stomach aches, sluggish intestines and irritation of the colon. Thanks to their high fiber content (40 g per 100 g), carob seeds promote good functioning of intestinal transit. They act as an excellent anti-diarrheal and a natural laxative.

In addition, the seeds contain pectin, a plant substance that protects the gastric mucosa and intestinal walls. Carob also helps improve the health of intestinal flora by acting as a prebiotic.

–reducing cholesterol levels

Several studies have confirmed the benefits of carob in reducing the level of “bad cholesterol” (LDL) and triglycerides in the blood. This action is due to the presence of polyphenols and soluble fibers.

The polyphenols present in carob have a dual effect: they increase the level of “good cholesterol” (HDL) while protecting LDL cholesterol from oxidation. This helps prevent the formation of plaques in the arteries, which are responsible for atherosclerosis.

Soluble fiber also helps lower cholesterol levels by limiting the absorption of carbohydrates and lipids.

–regulating blood sugar levels

Carob can also be a valuable ally in the fight against diabetes. Indeed, it is famous for its hypoglycemic effects. It improves the management and reduction of blood sugar levels. However, you shouldnote that carob can increase insulin sensitivity and interact with diabetes medications. This is why you should seek advice from a doctor before consuming carob if you are diabetic.

-The Benefits Of Carob Seeds in protecting the body

Carob plays a role in the body’s defense. Carob seeds contain antioxidant active ingredients, such as polyphenols, which effectively fight against free radicals and reduce the damage they can cause.

The vitamins present in carob also contribute to the body’s defense. For example, vitamin A supports the functioning of the immune system and slows cellular aging, just like vitamin E. Vitamin B2, or riboflavin, participates in the production of enzymes and the regeneration of glutathione, a powerful antioxidant.

Additionally, carob seeds contain iron, which is part of the body’s antioxidant enzymes.

How to consume carob?

Carob can be found in several forms. In stores, you can find it in the form of powder, flour, seeds, gum or even syrup.

–Carob powder and flour

Carob powder and flour are created from the completely crushed carob pod. In this form, you can easily use carob to replace chocolate in sweet preparations. You can use it in pastries or in your milkshakes!

–Locust bean gum

Locust bean gum, or carob seed flour, is different from carob flour. It is made from carob seeds. In food, locust bean gum is used as a thickener. It is found in industrial preparations under the name E410.

Locust bean gum can also be used in cooking to thicken sauces!

–Carob syrup

Carob syrup is made from the pulp of the pod. This form is rather less common than the others in stores, but it is still possible to find it in organic stores or on specialized sites.

In cooking, carob syrup can be an excellent solution to replace sugar! You can easily incorporate it into your cakes and drinks.

Are there any precautions to take when consuming carob?

There are certain contraindications to the consumption of carob. Therefore, it is not recommended for the following people:

• Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid consuming carob for a long time as a precaution.
• People with diabetes, due to the effect of carob on blood sugar and insulin resistance, should seek the advice of their doctor before consuming it.
• People with kidney problems should avoid carob because it can influence urea and creatine levels.
• Carob should not be consumed in cases of severe anemia or trace element deficiency.
• It is not recommended to give carob to underweight infants and children.

Side effects of carob are rare, but there have been a few reported cases of skin rashes.

Before consuming or adding any “super food” to your diet or taking food supplements, do not hesitate to ask you doctor or a professional for advice.

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I hope you enjoyed this list of The Benefits Of Carob Seeds and found it useful. Comment down below what you think of this seed. Have you ever tried it? if yes please share with us your experience.

Looking forward to reading your comments, sending you love and positive energy!!!