Description

 Ounce for ounce, carob, which is also known as locust bean gum, has more fiber and calcium but fewer calories than cocoa. Its carbohydrates include the sugars sucrose, D-mannose, and D-galactose. (D-galactose is a simple sugar that links up with other sugars to form the complex indigestible sugars raffinose and stachyose.) Carob also contains gums and pectins, the indigestible food fibers commonly found in seeds.
   As a wheat substitute in bakingProtection against certain cancersAs a laxativeTo strengthen bones and reduce age-related loss of bone densityLower cholesterol levelsAs a source of calciumDilation of blood vesselsAnti-inflammatory effectsReduced risk of hypertension (high blood pressure).Reduced levels of cholesterolTreating and/or preventing iron deficiencyReduce symptoms of PMSLower risk of strokeAs a stimulant and mood elevatorProtection against heart diseaseAs a diet aidUrinary antisepticWound healingA lower risk of some kinds of cancerPotassium replacementAs a diureticPotassium benefitsAnticancer activityTo relieve or prevent constipationUse as contrast mediumReduced risk of cardiovascular disease, cancer, decline of brain function, and other diseases of aging.To soothe irritated skinTo reduce the levels of serum cholesterolLower risk of heart attackProtein sourceIron supplementationAs a source of carbohydrates for people with diabetesLower risk of dental cavitiesAnti-inflammatory actionRelief from stuffed nose caused by cold or seasonal (mold, pollen) allergyCalming effectLower risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and some forms of cancerAdsorbent and demulcentVision protectionProtection against vitamin A-deficiency blindnessAntiscorbuticProtection against some cancersAs a chocolate substituteLower risk of some birth defectsProtection against osteoporosisStimulating the appetitebranded*3 fish oilsRelieving the congestion of a coldProtective effects of branded*3 fatty acidsProtection against cardiovascular disease