The baobab tree, native to much of the African continent, has been a traditional food source in Africa for centuries.
The tree is sometimes referred to as the “upside-down tree” due to its distinctive structure, with its branches resembling roots that reach up into the sky.
Baobab Powder Benefits
1. Baobab powder is high in vitamin C
We all know how important vitamin C is! It is a powerful antioxidant that supports immune function, collagen production and improves iron absorption. Vitamin C is vital for maintaining healthy bones, skin, blood vessels and more. Baobab powder has 6 times the vitamin C of an orange by weight, and provides 33% of the recommended daily amount in just one tablespoon.
2. Baobab powder is rich in prebiotic fiber
You’ve probably heard of probiotics and taken them after a course of antibiotics. Probiotics are live microbiota that reside in the gut and support digestion and immune health. Baobab is a prebiotic food, meaning that it includes soluble fibers that are non-digestible and benefit the gut microbiome to produce beneficial microflora (probiotics) such as Lactobacilli and Bifidobacteria.
Baobab is rich in pectin and a great source of prebiotic fiber for people who experience digestive distress with inulin a prebiotic derived from chicory root. Baobab powder is 50% fiber, 30% of the fiber is prebiotic!
The benefits of prebiotic fiber extends beyond the gut and increases stress resilience, alleviating anxiety and even improving sleep according to research at the University of Colorado in Boulder. Research published in the Journal Microorganism showed that Baobab Fruit Powder boosts the production of health-promoting short chain fatty acids acetate, propionate, and butyrate. Low levels of short-chain fatty acids are linked to digestive disorders like irritable bowel syndrome and ulcerative colitis. Supplementation with foods that produce short-chain fatty acids also reduce the tendency to diabetes and heart disease.
3. Baobab powder is a vegan source of calcium
Calcium is one of the most abundant minerals in our bodies and together with vitamin D makes for strong bones and healthy skin. Baobab powder has possibly the highest calcium content of any plant food—it provides 2 times the calcium of milk, making it an ideal calcium boost for those who don’t eat dairy (or anyone, really!). For the cardiovascular system consuming enough calcium lowers the risk of high blood pressure. Calcium also improves skin barrier function which helps retain hydration for plump youthful skin. People with dry, fragile skin in particular benefit from calcium-rich foods.
4. Baobab powder has 4 times the potassium of a banana
Baobab powder provides 4 times the potassium of a banana, making it an excellent source of this crucial nutrient . Along with sodium, potassium plays a role in maintaining the body’s fluid balance, muscle and kidney function. Every cell in the body needs potassium, for the cardiovascular system it regulates heartbeat, relaxes blood vessels and promotes normal blood pressure. Potassium prevents cramping and constipation and calms the mind.
5. Baobab powder is a source of magnesium
Fun fact: Magnesium is used in more than 600 reactions in the body! Magnesium regulates blood sugar, and is essential to heart health and brain function. For athletes magnesium improves leg strength and improves performance. Magnesium deficiency affects mood and is associated with increased depression, anxiety and sleep problems.
6. Baobab powder provides potent polyphenol antioxidants
Nutrient-dense baobab powder is an excellent source of polyphenol antioxidants. We’ve all heard about how great antioxidants are for your health, but what do they. do? Polyphenol antioxidants protect the body's tissues against oxidative stress associated with cancer, and coronary heart disease. It’s a good idea to consume antioxidants every day to reduce inflammation which. puts us at risk of chronic disease. Studies show that Baobab’s polyphenol antioxidants improve sugar handling and support a balanced gut microbiome. A single helping of nutrient-dense Baobab powder includes 6 times the amount of polyphenol antioxidants found in berries—so toss a tablespoon or two into your smoothie and keep those free radicals in check!
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FDA DISCLAIMER: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease
CAUTIONS & WARNINGS: Please seek the advice of a healthcare provider before using this or any other herbal
