Vanilla is one of the most popular flavors in the world. It is not only delicious and smells great, but also supports our health. The most aromatic plant, desired by chefs all over the world, comes from South America. Nowadays, Madagascar is also famous for growing high quality vanilla. Why is it worth introducing a natural vanilla extract into your diet?
What is vanilla extract?
Vanilla extract is a combination of vanilla beans and alcohol. After being immersed in the alcohol, the vanilla pods releases the compound, the vanillin, which is responsible for its unusual taste and aroma. A dark brown extract is produced, which is most often used in confectionery.
While buying vanilla extract, special attention should be paid to its origin, because as much as 95% of the vanilla extract allowed for sale is obtained from lignin, i.e. a by-product of paper production. It is synthetic, unhealthy vanillin that can harm us more than help us.
It is best to make your own extract at home. This natural extract has a rich flavor and aroma. In addition, it is organic and fully ecological, such extract is the healthiest. Please note that it is best to use at least 35% alcohol to make it.
Vanilla extract - nutritional properties
One serving of vanilla extract (about 13 g) contains:
- 37 calories
- 1.6 g of carbohydrates
- 19.2 mg of potassium (1% of the recommended daily intake)
Health benefits of consuming natural vanilla extract
Natural vanilla extract is a health mine and has many health properties. Below we describe examples of its positive effects on the human body.
- Strong antioxidant
Antioxidants are an extremely important component of everyone's diet. They effectively neutralize free radicals, that can cause irreversible changes in the body. So-called "oxidative stress" contributes to the development of many dangerous diseases. The natural vanillin contained in the vanilla extract has a strong anti-oxidant effect, i.e. it fights free radicals.
- Antibacterial effect
- Anti-inflammatory effect
- Vanilla for improving mental health
- Vanilla reduces fever
- Lowering cholesterol?
In clinical trials it was found that natural vanillin has properties that lower the level of bad cholesterol in the blood. Therefore, introducing natural vanilla extract into the diet can effectively help reduce cholesterol and contribute to the improvement of overall health.
Natural vanilla extract is a health mine. It doesn't interact with medicines, it smells good and tastes good. It will work in the kitchen and in the home pharmacy. It is worth spending a few moments to make your own natural vanilla extract - then we will be sure that it will do a lot of good in our body
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