Who knew Sweet-Tarts grew on trees? Well they do, in the form of Tamarind.

I eat Tamarind Fruit when I’m looking for a special sweet treat. They taste kind of like a date, but not as intensely sweet and with a wonderful tangy flavor.

Tamarind is used a lot in South Asian cooking – tamarind paste. But, if you can find Tamarind in it’s natural pod state, it’s really worth eating. (I have found boxes of Tamarind Pods at Whole Foods and at Asian Markets.) They are a taste delight and have lots of health benefits. Keep reading for the health benefits.

Here’s how to eat Tamarind Fruit:

Tamarind Pod cracked open

  • Crack the pod open
  • Pull off the string
  • Break off a piece and eat it like a cherry, chewing around the pit, without actually eating the seed.
  • It can be a bit sticky, but it’s well worth it!

shell & string, pulp, seeds of Tamarind pod

Besides being a taste treat, Tamarind fruit is so good for you.

  • Aids digestion – slight laxative.
  • Natural remedy for bile disorders.
  • Lowers cholesterol and thus, is good for your heart.
  • High in Vitamin C.
  • High in antioxidants.
  • Good source of magnesium and potassium.

Keep your Tamarind pods in the fridge so they stay moist and fresh.

For more healthy candy check out my:

Food you can love that loves you back!

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Nina Manolson, MA, CHC, certified Health Coach and Psychology of Eating Coach believes that every women deserves to feel good in their own body. She helps women create a healthy and positive relationship with their food and body so they can love their body and life!  She’s the founder of NinaManolson.com and NourishedWomanNation.com 

She helps busy women look and feel their best. She specializes in working with women over 40 who have tried other diets and approaches but are still struggling with their body and food. She helps women step into a new wellness paradigm that makes it real and do-able and makes self-care a sustainable healthy habit.

She’s the author of “Feed Your Kids Well In A World That Doesn’t: an everyday guide to make healthy food happen in your home and beyond”. She’s also the recipient of the prestigious Health Leadership Award from the Institute for Integrative Nutrition.

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