A cup of coffee, for many people, is not just a simple morning drink but also an ideal way to awaken the spirit and provide energy. However, to refresh this beverage, you can add some unique ingredients that not only enhance the taste but also provide notable health benefits.
One of those ingredients is tamarind powder, a spice with a warm, sweet, and slightly spicy flavor, creating a warm sensation on the tongue when enjoyed. Tamarind powder, known as peeled or dried tamarind seeds, originated from Indonesia.
The unique flavor of tamarind is described as a combination of pepper and the sweet and sour taste of preserved plums. Adding spices like tamarind, cinnamon, and cloves to coffee is a popular style in Arab countries.
In Vietnam, tamarind trees are mainly found in southern provinces. Tamarind powder is often used as a spice for braised, grilled, and soup dishes, as well as desserts and beverages. Here are the benefits you can get when adding tamarind to your morning coffee.
Blood sugar control
According to a recent study from Russia, tamarind seed extract has been found to significantly reduce blood sugar levels while enhancing pancreatic function and may be an effective treatment for diabetes. This is believed to be due to the large amount of antioxidants in tamarind, which are beneficial to the body’s health.
Furthermore, black coffee is also known to have a positive impact on insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism. Many studies have demonstrated the ability of black coffee to prevent type 2 diabetes. The combination of coffee and tamarind can help reduce the risk of diabetes, especially when no sugar or milk is added for sweetness.
Improved memory and concentration
Tamarind, a seed originating from Eastern Europe, has been shown to stimulate brain activity, reduce fatigue and stress. When combined with coffee, this drink not only enhances concentration but also helps the drinker feel more alert, improve mood, and minimize symptoms of depression. Moreover, the combination of tamarind and coffee can also slow down the process of cognitive decline, one of the main causes of memory loss and Alzheimer’s disease.
Improved digestion
Compounds in tamarind have been studied and shown to support the healing process of stomach ulcers. Moreover, tamarind seeds are known for their effects of reducing unwanted symptoms such as nausea, indigestion, bloating, and diarrhea. In particular, this powder has the ability to stimulate gastric and intestinal secretions, thereby improving the digestion of food. When combined with coffee, this drink not only improves metabolic processes but also supports digestive health.
Cardiovascular support
Studies have shown that tamarind can improve various aspects of cardiovascular health, including reducing cholesterol and high levels of neutral fats. Tamarind helps maintain stable blood pressure, regular heart rate, improve blood circulation, and prevent cardiovascular-related diseases. Another study also showed that tamarind extract can prevent the aggregation of blood clots, which can support the prevention of dangerous conditions such as strokes.
Additionally, a study published in the journal of the American Heart Association has shown that, thanks to its high antioxidant content, coffee can help protect the heart, reduce the risk of heart disease. Therefore, when combining coffee and tamarind, they create a “supplement” for the heart.
Notes when using tamarind coffee
Although tamarind is considered safe when used in conjunction with coffee, excessive use of this spice is also not recommended. To optimize benefits and avoid undesirable side effects, you should only use about 1.5 – 3g of tamarind powder per day. Furthermore, do not drink tamarind-infused coffee more than 2-3 cups/day and avoid drinking it close to bedtime to avoid affecting sleep quality.
Ugly-looking fruit with sour taste, aids in weight loss, promotes digestion and heart health
The tangy flavor of this fruit brings a highly enticing taste to the dish. Not only that, it also holds certain benefits for our health.
