Carob is very famous in our Arab world, and it is used in different ways, the most famous of which is preparing it as a drink. We will learn about its various benefits, and can it be used for pregnant women? What are its possible effects on the body? All answers in the next article.

What is carob?

Carob in English (Ceratonia siliqua in English) is called in some Arab countries (Carob), and it is an old tree that has been used for more than 4000 years in the countries of ancient Greece, and its fruits are from the legume family, and its fruits are called pods and are similar in shape to peas and contain seeds inside them And it has a sweet flavour.

Carob nutritional values

Each two tablespoons of carob powder contains 70 calories, in addition to the following nutritional values:

• Calcium: 42 mg.
• Magnesium: 6 mg.
• Potassium: 99 mg.
• Fiber: 5 grams.
• Sugar: 6 grams.

The benefits of carob

These pods have multiple benefits for the body, the most important of which are:

• Contains important antioxidants for the body against diseases.
• Rich in fiber that helps satiety.
• Caffeine free.
• gluten free.
• It is a poor source of both sugar and fat.
• It can be suitable for hypertensive patients because it is caffeine-free.
• May contribute to the treatment of diarrhea.
• Promoting heart health by lowering blood cholesterol, and because of the antioxidants in it.
• It is free of tyramine, which may trigger migraines, so it is healthier than chocolate because it contains this substance.

Carob benefits for colon

Many people with colon problems suffer from diarrhea or constipation, and carob may have a potential benefit in treating diarrhea, due to the tannins present in it, which are considered polyphenols.

Benefits of carob for men

According to a study conducted on mice, carob extract had a role in further improving sperm quality, as well as increasing testosterone levels, but there is still a need to confirm the results in humans.

Carob benefits for nerves

These fruits contain both calcium and potassium, which are important minerals for the health of the nerves in the body, even if they are not in very large proportions, so it is important to maintain nerve health.

Natural sweetener

One of the benefits of carob, which makes it a distinctive and healthy fruit, is that it is considered a healthy alternative to chocolate, as it is sweet in taste, so people who love sweets can enjoy eating it without gaining more fat or added sugar.

Rich in vitamins and minerals

Carob is a unique source of many minerals and vitamins, as it contains important minerals such as:

• calcium.
• copper.
• magnesium.
• potassium.
• zinc.

It also contains many vitamins that are beneficial to the body, such as:

• Vitamin A.
• Some of the B group vitamins: B2, 3, and 6.

Does carob increase weight?

Carob is a low source of fat and sugar, and it is also rich in fiber. These factors do not help gain weight, but rather do the opposite, so it can be suitable for people who follow a diet.

Is carob safe for pregnant women?

There is no evidence of the safety of carob in its form during pregnancy, so pregnant women should not consume large amounts of it in their diet, and should not take its supplements without consulting a doctor.

How to use carob

These fruits can be used in different ways, such as:

• Make a refreshing cold carob drink.
• Fresh pods can be chewed.

Also available as:

• Molasses (used as an artificial sweetener).
• Chips.
• powder
• Food Supplements.

Carob damage

Although these fruits are generally considered safe, some may suffer from some health problems such as allergy to carob gum, and people who are allergic to legumes may be more susceptible to this, and some symptoms may appear such as:

• Skin rash.
• Asthma.

Also; Eating it in large quantities may also cause some problems such as weight loss, and a change in the level of sugar and insulin in the blood, so you should not overeat it despite its many health benefits.. Moderation is required.