Algarrobina Syrup and Pitahaya

Quick post guys .. ! I had a few questionnings on two products lately.. I was wondering what Algarrobina syrup was called in English and the benefits of Pitahaya (or, Dragon Fruit). I mentioned Pitahaya on a previous post and felt silly for not having even looked up what it was good for apart from its taste and just assuming it was nutritious.. Thought it could interest you as well! So, Algarrobina syrup is extract from black carob tree (in Spanish, from the algarrobo). I mentioned it here & on my Instagram (LUSINHA_) as I use it as a natural sweetener when I make smoothies or juices. It has a sweet and strong taste which I like a lot. It’s nothing like honey, it’s a lot darker and it can be quite thicker. I think it can be assimilated to molasses yet I’m not quite sure if that’s the right definition for “chancaca” syrup. Algarrobina syrup can be used in a variety of ways: as a topping on cakes or fruit salads, to replace chocolate in recipes (still to try that out!) and you can also have it in a cocktail named.. Algarrobina (Pisco Egg Nog)! I found out it was actually considered a superfood as it contains iron, calcium, phosphorous, magnesium and potassium along with vitamin A, B1, B2 and D.. all that!  Had I know before I would have used it a lot more I think. Now on to Pitahaya.. I don’t know what it is about this fruit but it fascinates me! It’s probably its cactus-like looks and it’s prickly pears’ similarities in taste without the seeds. Although it is one of the priciest fruits here in Lima, after my first try, I’m definitely going back to it specially NOW I know what its benefits are! It appears to have major impact on oxidative stress and aortic stiffness in people suffering from diabetes (I’m not diabetic but have a tendency towards it because of family precedents). It’s an excellent food thus to prevent disorders due to diabetes but also to reduce risks of developing or suffering from heart diseases and hypertension. On top of that, this extremely exotic fruit is a great source of antioxidants (one more to the variety!). Therefore, a regular consumption of Pitahaya reduces the proliferation of free radicals in our body that are responsible for the appearance of cancerous tumors and other serious illnesses. Its tiny seeds contain Omega 3 fatty type which are ideal for treating certain autoimmune diseases and to prevent the occurrence of certain cancers related to hormonal changes , such as breast , colon and prostate. See? ALL-OF-THAT ! But wait.. there’s more, this fruit certainly is full of surprises ;)

Besides all the above , dragon fruit is excellent for quick digestion and to detox the body. Ideally, it should be consumed on an empty stomach in the morning, it will help you free your body of toxins and also receive all the nutrients needed for optimal development of your body. Also, it is composed mostly of fiber, which provides a satiety effect ; as well as fewer calories. Follow up, there's more coming! Enjoy & Share your thoughts :) L.