From weight loss to digestion: Health benefits of eating tamarind daily

Commonly referred to as the ‘date of India’, tamarind is a tropical fruit that is used in so many dishes around the world. Native to Africa, the tree also grows in India and Pakistan and other tropical regions. The tree produces bean-like pods filled with seeds and surrounded by a fibrous pulp. The pulp of the young fruit tastes sour and is green in color. As it ripens, the juicy pulp becomes paste-like and gains a sweet-sour flavor.

This tropical fruit, which is a prime ingredient in Worcestershire sauce, has many health benefits and is recommended to be consumed on a regular basis. Here are a few reasons why you should eat tamarind daily!

Helps in weight loss

Tamarind is rich in fiber and doesn’t have fat content. Eating tamarind daily might help in weight reduction because it contains flavonoids and polyphenols. The fruit also contains hydroxy-citric acid, which reduces appetite. This acid helps inhibit amylase, an enzyme responsible for converting carbohydrate into fat.

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Effective in managing diabetes

Tamarind seed extracts are said to stabilise blood sugar levels. Studies also show they help reverse the damage of pancreatic tissue in those suffering from diabetes. They are anti-inflammatory in nature. The fruit is also loaded with the enzyme alpha-amylase, which has been proven to reduce blood sugar levels.

Helps with digestion

Tamarind has been used as a laxative since ancient times because of its tartaric acid, malic acid and potassium content. It is used as a remedy for diarrhoea because of its ability to relax abdominal muscles.

Prevents peptic ulcers

Peptic ulcers are sores that appear in the inner lining of the stomach and small intestine. They can be very painful but the poly phenolic compounds found in the fruit help  prevent these ulcers.

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Aids a healthy heart

Tamarind is a heart friendly fruit. The high potassium content in it keeps blood pressure in check. Flavonoids present in it also lower LDL/ bad cholesterol and raise HDL/good cholesterol levels, preventing the build-up of triglycerides in the blood.

Contributes immensely to liver health

A diet rich in calories leads to fatty liver but the daily consumption of tamarind extract helps reverse this condition.