Are you wondering about the benefits of Tamarind commonly known as Sampalok in the Philippines? The tamarind tree, which originated in Africa and is now found in many tropical regions, produces tamarind pods. Asian, Middle Eastern, Mexican, and South American cuisines all use tamarind. Brown pods have a sticky pulp with a bittersweet taste. Chutneys, desserts, drinks, syrups, sauces, and sweets benefit from their acidity and sharpness, as do meals like pad Thai and desserts. It may be a naturally occurring low-glycemic food that has a wealth of beneficial micronutrients, making it a totally nourishing meal.
One cup (or 120g) of crude tamarind pulp gives 287 calories, 3.4g protein, 75g carbohydrates, and 0.7g fat. In addition to potassium, magnesium, and other minerals, tamarind is a fantastic source of vitamins C and B vitamins. In addition to being a powerhouse of nutrients, tamarind, also known as sampalok, has several health advantages. Tamarind has been used as a traditional medicine, including therapy for sunstroke, blockage, and sore throats. It seems to be able to help in lowering blood sugar and cholesterol.
Here are other health benefits of tamarind or sampalok:
Tissue Health. Protein's building blocks, amino acids, are essential for the body's ability to form and repair tissues. Some amino acids are essential, which means that people must consume them since their bodies can't produce them. Except for tryptophan, tamarind has notable amounts of all the essential amino acids. The World Health Organization has determined that it is a perfect protein in terms of the other amino acids. How well the body can absorb all the nutrients present in tamarind is unknown to analysts.
Cancer Risk Reduction. For several reasons, including a decreased risk of cancer, scientists advise eating a diet high in cancer prevention agents. Anti-cancer medications can stop free radicals from damaging cell DNA. Plant phytochemicals have antioxidant properties. Several phytochemicals, including beta-carotene, are abundant in tamarind.
Brain Health. There are eight unique vitamins that work in addition to those in the B vitamin category. Since they are all water-soluble, the body does not store any of them. You should be able to get enough B vitamins from food alone, without the need for supplements. The whole spectrum of B vitamins is essential for excellent wellness. They are especially important for the proper operation of the nervous system and the brain. The B vitamins in tamarind are particularly abundant in thiamine and folate. Tamarind, like other plants, doesn't contain B12.
Sugar-like calories make up the majority of the calories in tamarind pulp. For many people, tamarind remains an important source of nutrition, thanks to its complement profile. You might only need to use a small amount of it if you're watching your weight or sugar consumption. Tamarind is also used to make sweet and sweetened beverages. These items are poor options for those with diabetes, problems with weight management, or metabolic syndrome because they contain sugar.
PDO I Kimberly M. Tanador, RND
References:
- Health Benefits of Tamarind
https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-tamarind
- 7 Health Benefits of Tamarind + Possible Side Effects
https://www.stylecraze.com/articles/amazing-benefits-of-tamarind/
- Tamarind Nutrition Facts and Health Benefits
