7 Health benefits of mesquite powder

1. It is ideal for people with diabetes.
A natural sweetener, mesquite powder won’t cause insulin to metabolize. This is because the sugar of mesquite comes from fructose. Because of this characteristic, mesquite can help keep blood sugar levels at balanced levels for a longer time. It is also considered a good addition to any diabetic’s diet, aside from aiding in a healthy insulin response. With a glycemic index of 25 which is lower than sugar, mesquite powder also digests a lot slower than most grains. It, therefore, helps in preventing instant raises and drops in blood sugar levels.

2. It can promote good digestion.
Mesquite powder is rich in soluble fiber which can speed up the bowel elimination process, improve bowel function and minimize build-up of toxic bacteria in the body. Fiber also promotes better absorption of vitamins and minerals. A growing body of research has also linked fiber to colon cancer and disease prevention.

3. It is good for the heart.
Mesquite powder has high amounts of omega-3 fatty acids which can lower risks of heart disease and stroke. These essential fatty acids are known to reduce inflammation while promoting cognitive and behavioral function. Deficiency of omega-3 fatty acids is exhibited by symptoms like poor memory, fatigue, dry skin, depression and mood swings.

4. It can boost the immune system.
Mesquite powder is also a good source of zinc, an essential mineral for our immune system. Zinc helps in boosting the immune system. It can speed up treatment of common cold as well as recurrent ear infections. In fact, one of the symptoms of zinc deficiency is slow wound healing. Zinc is also needed by the body to fight off malaria and other diseases due to parasite growth and infection.

5. It can promote muscle growth and repair.
Mesquite powder is one of those few super foods that combine fiber and protein. Up to 17% of the mesquite pod contains protein. As you might know by now, protein is considered as the building block of muscles. Without protein, our bodies won’t be able to build muscles. Regular intake of protein-rich foods such as mesquite powder not only promotes muscle growth but also speeds up muscle repair and improvement in strength and athletic performance.

6. It helps reduce blood pressure.
Nearly 1 in 5 people are affected by high blood pressure, which is a risk factor for heart disease. Potassium which is also found in mesquite powder can reduce blood pressure as it aids the body in removing excess sodium. High levels of sodium in the body can cause blood pressure to rise. Lowering blood pressure levels isn’t the only role of potassium in our bodies. It can also protect us against other diseases such as osteoporosis, kidney stones and stroke.

7. It can help treat depression.
Mesquite powder is also a good source of magnesium, a mineral known to cure psychiatric dysfunctions like stress, anxiety and panic attacks. Magnesium also plays a role in treating depression, insomnia and migraines.

How to integrate mesquite powder into your cooking

As mentioned earlier, mesquite powder is used in baking goods such as cakes and cookies. But you don’t need to be a baker to use more mesquite powder. You can add it to smoothies and shakes. Simply add a few teaspoons of this super food into your favorite beverage and you are ready to go.
You can also sprinkle mesquite powder on your breakfast cereal. You may also add a tablespoon or two of this powder to a homemade granola. And yes, you can substitute it for sugar in making coffee and tea.