Carob powder or is often used as a substitute to cocoa powder. It is naturally sweet and is milder compared to cocoa. Many studies debate the benefits of carob as opposed to chocolate. Theobromine is a major component in cocoa powder, which is absent in carob. During pregnancy, theobromine freely crosses the placenta barrier and is taken in by the foetus. In a study on pregnant mice, researchers found that the mice who were given theobromine produced offspring with shorter limbs, suppressed immune systems and enlarged spleens. They concluded, “Consequently, particular attention should be paid to the reduction of theobromine consumption, and most probably that of other methyloxanthines, during pregnancy and lactation”. Hence, carob powder can be a good alternative to curb your chocolate cravings during pregnancy.
