Vanilla bean extract is widely used for baking, flavoring, and cooking purposes. The website Joy of Baking explains that vanilla extract is the second most expensive spice in the world next to saffron. The benefits from vanilla extract are found in 100% pure products, so when buying vanilla extract, make sure it is labeled "pure." Imitation and vanilla flavoring extracts are made with either synthetic vanilla or a mixture combined with pure vanilla.
Healthy Substitution
Vanilla bean extract can be used as a healthy substitution for sugar in many baking and cooking recipes. To reduce the amount of sugar, the Mayo Clinic recommends the addition of spices or flavorings such as vanilla extract or almond flavoring to enhance the sweetness of the food. This will reduce the amount of calories and thus creates a healthier alternative.
Contains Vitamins
Vanilla extract contains small amounts of vitamins including the B-complex group. This group commonly includes niacin, thiamin, pantothenic acid, riboflavin and vitamin B-6. Nutrition and You states that these B-complex groups of vitamins help enzyme synthesis, nervous system function and regulating body metabolism.
Supplies Minerals
This extract also contains traces of minerals including calcium, magnesium, potassium, manganese, iron and zinc. As mentioned by Nutrition and You, potassium helps control heart rate and blood pressure because it is an important component of cell and body fluids. Manganese and copper provide the body with antioxidant enzymes and iron, which is essential for red blood cell production.
Anti-carcinogenic
The antioxidants in vanilla extract have anti-carcinogenic properties. Anti- carcinogenics, as defined by National Cancer Institute, means that ingredients in vanilla extract can prevent or delay the development of cancer. Free radicals, otherwise known as oxidants, cause damage tissue leading to certain types of cancers, such as prostrate, colon and breast. Thus, vanilla extract contains certain components that have potential to reduce the growth of cancerous cells.
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