Carob Toblerone

by Nicola
(California)

Hello, I have written a letter to the Tobler company asking them if they could make a carob Toblerone.


Chocolate makes me feel depressed after the drug effect drops in my system. I also want to know whether carob is 100% free of any stimulating chemicals like those in chocolate.


The person above mentioned that carob is not a healthier choice than chocolate. I heard many times that it was a healthy alternative.


Is carob healthier? Is it 100% safe and nutritious for dogs and people?

---

Hi Nicola,

Good questions! I guess 'healthy' is in the eye of the beholder in many cases. Chocolate has caffeine and theobromine, which are stimulants, as you noted. In moderation, these can be good for you. It's when you over indulge that you get into trouble, as with most things. Some individuals have to be careful, though, if they have a sensitivity to cocoa.


For me, the greatest disadvantage or 'unhealthy' part of chocolate is the sugar content. You can get the darkest of chocolates which has very little or no sugar at all. This is much better for you, but many people don't like the strong flavor.


Carob doesn't have the caffeine and theobromine. But, you usually have the same problem with the sugar content. A lot of the carob chips, etc., on the market do have a high amount of sugar. Here, too, you can look for carob that has little or no sugar to make it healthier.


Many people, both chocolate or carob lovers, solve this problem by using cocoa or carob powder and mixing in their own 'healthier sugar' to the recipe. My friend, Joanna, uses Rapadura as her choice of sweetener. Other people use Maltitol or Erythritol or Stevia. Each one has it's advantages and particular taste. You probably need to experiment and find out which you prefer.


As for dogs, yes carob is safe for dogs! But, moderation is still important, especially if you are giving him carob that is full of sugar. Chocolate is a no-no for dogs. It's the theobromine that is the 'poison' to them.


As for me, the only reason I feel a bit 'depressed' after overindulging in a good bit of chocolate is the fact that I know I'm going to put on weight! Now, that's depressing! :)


Carob does have vitamins and nutrients that your body needs. It contains Vitamins A, B1, B2, niacin, calcium, magnesium, and potassium, to name a few.


Well, I hope you get a reply about the Toblerone. Do let us know if you hear back from them. That would be something even I would be interested in trying!

Blessings,
Angie