**1. What are Cacao Nibs?**
Cacao nibs are made by fermenting, drying, removing the shells, and crushing cacao beans, the raw material for chocolate. They can be considered ‘unprocessed chocolate’ with no additives like sugar or milk.
**2. Why They Are Good for People with Diabetes**
– **Zero Sugar:** They contain no sugar at all and do not raise blood sugar.
– **Rich in Polyphenols:** Cacao is rich in a powerful antioxidant called ‘flavanols.’ This compound can help keep blood vessels healthy, improve insulin sensitivity, and lower blood pressure.
– **Dietary Fiber and Healthy Fats:** They are rich in dietary fiber and monounsaturated fatty acids, which provide satiety and are beneficial for cardiovascular health.
**3. Cautions and How to Use**
– **There is no ‘sweetness’:** Cacao nibs do not have the sweet taste of regular chocolate at all. Instead, they are characterized by a bitter and nutty flavor. Therefore, they are suitable for when you want to enjoy the ‘flavor’ of chocolate, rather than as a substitute for ‘sweetness.’
– **Calories:** Being rich in healthy fats, they are not low in calories. It is recommended to consume only a small amount, about one teaspoon to one tablespoon per day.
– **How to Use:** It’s good to sprinkle them as a topping on plain yogurt or salads, or to consume a small amount with nuts.
Summary: Cacao nibs are an excellent diabetic snack that allows you to enjoy the original flavor of cacao and its antioxidants without sugar. However, you should not expect a sweet snack, and you should consume only a small amount, considering the calories.
Leave a Reply