Benefits of Baobab Fruit and Powder – Docindia.org
The baobab tree is found in Australia, Africa and South Africa. It is a tropical region, and it tolerates hot and dry conditions. Baobab is considered an exceptional fruit of these regions. It is green, furry and coated with a coconut-like shell of a smooth brown colour. Inside the baobab fruit, there is powdery pulp and seeds that are highly nutritious and rich in vitamin C. It is usually consumed as a powder made from the harvested fruit that is dried and ground. This powder of baobab fruit is used as food in beverages and for medicinal purposes.
Nutritional value of Baobab:
Baobab is a good source of many nutrients, such as vitamins and minerals, but the amount of nutrients it contains can vary depending upon the location where it is grown. It is high in vitamin C, antioxidants, and minerals such as magnesium, iron, and zinc. It is also rich in fibre, which is good for our health.
The nutritional value of 20 grams of powdered baobab is given below:
- Calories: 50
- Carbs: 16 grams
- Fibre: 9 grams
- Protein: 1 gram
- Fat: 0 gram
- Vitamin C: 58% of the Reference Daily Intake
- Vitamin B6: 24 % of the Reference Daily Intake
- Niacin: 20% of the Reference Daily Intake
- Iron: 9% of the Reference Daily Intake
- Potassium: 9% of the Reference Daily Intake
- Magnesium: 8% of the Reference Daily Intake
- Calcium: 7% of the Reference Daily Intake
Benefits of baobab fruit
As baobab contains vitamin C in a goody, it helps contribute to energy release, immune function, and healthy glowing skin. But it's not limited to these benefits; there are many benefits of the Baobab fruit and powder which are given below.
Good for skin and hair
The baobab plant is good for skin as well as hair health. It contains all the important nutrients which are necessary for our skin, such as vitamin C, magnesium, iron, potassium and zinc, which helps moisturise the skin and reduce fine lines and wrinkles. It also contains hair growth nutrients that help in improving hair strength and hair health.
Help manage blood sugar levels
Baobab powder is rich in soluble fibre, which helps to slow down the process of release of sugars into the blood, resulting in the decrease of sugar levels. It is beneficial for long-term blood sugar level control. You always consider adding Baobab to your diet for benefits in blood sugar control. Taking Baobab with white bread decreases the amount of insulin in the blood and helps control blood sugar levels.
Reduce inflammation
Baobab has many antioxidants and polyphenols, which help in reducing inflammation in the body. Chronic inflammation could result in some serious health conditions such as heart disease, cancer, diabetes and autoimmune disorders. Baobab powder can help protect us from this condition. The presence of vitamin C and other oxidants in baobab protects cells from damage, keeps the immune system strong and supports the body against many illnesses.
Reduce cholesterol levels
Baobab contains fibre, both soluble and insoluble. Soluble fibre works in the reduction of cholesterol levels in the blood, and insoluble fibre helps in a digestive system and maintains good health. This helps in preventing digestive problems such as constipation and provides good digestion to our body.
Manage weight loss
Baobab powder is good for the stomach, as it contains fibre in an abundant amount. It prevents excess intake of calories because baobab helps our stomach to feel full for longer. Baobab helps in reducing the cravings and increasing the feeling of fullness, which results in eating less and no weight gain.
Ways to take baobab into your diet
Baobab can be taken into your diet in two ways: either fresh or powdered. Regions such as Africa and Australia, where the baobab is mostly found, are easily available for the people who live there. It can be eaten fresh or with desserts, soups and smoothies. but countries where the fruit not being found is a challenge for their people; they consider having it in a powder form. The powdered form of baobab is widely found at many health stores in different parts of the world; they are also available at online stores. People who use Baobab in a powder form can mix it into water, juice beverages or smoothies.
Despite having numerous benefits, Baobab also has some side effects, such as containing anti-nutrients and fatty acids which can contribute to many health problems.
Adding baobab into your diet can help manage weight, balance blood sugar levels, reduce inflammation and maintain digestive health. You can take it in any form available to you, such as in a powder form or as a fresh fruit if you are lucky.
