Calories In Vanilla

Vanilla is a flavor that is used in enhancing the taste of food. It is obtained from the vanilla plant that is grown in Mexico, Tahiti, Madagascar, and Indonesia. Vanilla is also popular for its scent, and it is used in the perfume industry. Today, vanilla bean is the second most expensive spice after saffron. This is because farming it is a labor-intensive process.  Vanilla has been also known for its medicinal properties.

• Vanilla extract contains traces of B-complex vitamins. Nutrients in vanilla also include small amounts of minerals like zinc, iron and manganese. It has small quantities of sodium and saturated fat.
• A good percentage of calories come from the sugar content of the extract.

Calories In Vanilla Extract

Vanilla extract is made from vanilla beans and contains the compound vanillin. This extract is used for cooking and baking purposes as it lends a great flavor to food. It also widely used in aromatherapy. Home remedies also use the extract to eliminate odors. One ounce weighs about 28 grams, and calories in vanilla extract add up to 81. Nutrition facts of vanilla extract are given in detail below:

• Fat = 0 grams
• Cholesterol = 0 grams
• Carbohydrates = 4 grams (all from sugar)
• Calcium = 3.1 mg
• Potassium = 41.4 mg

Calories In Vanilla Ice Cream

Vanilla ice cream is a popular flavor that has been enjoyed by people for generations. It is easily one of the most well-known flavors and is enjoyed by people around the world. Calories in vanilla ice cream amount to 145, this is for a half-cup serving size. Nutritional content in vanilla ice cream is as follows:

• Total Fat = 7.9 grams
• Cholesterol = 32 mg
• Sodium = 58 mg
• Potassium = 143 mg
• Sugars = 15.28 grams
• Protein = 2.52 grams

Calories In Vanilla Vodka

Vodka is a popular alcoholic beverage made from wheat, potatoes, molasses, or even beets.  In recent times, flavored vodka has gained popularity, vanilla vodka being one of them. Calories in vanilla vodka add up to 69 for one fluid ounce. Though vodka does not have carbohydrates or sugar, the calorie count is enough to deter one from consuming it regularly. Also regular consumption of alcohol leads to many adverse effects for our bodies. Nutritional composition in vanilla vodka is split up as follows:

• Total fat = 0 grams
• Cholesterol = 0 grams
• Total carbohydrate = 0 grams
• Protein = 0 grams

Calories In Vanilla Yogurt

Vanilla is a popular flavoring for yogurt as well.  Yogurt is an important requirement for our bodies as it contains calcium, which is required to maintain a healthy bone structure. It also contains vitamins and minerals. Regular vanilla yogurt, however, additionally contains saturated fat and sugar. Consuming large quantities of it can be dangerous for our health. Low fat options of vanilla yogurt can be consumed to prevent adding extra calories. Calories in vanilla yogurt amount to 208. This is for one cup of low fat yogurt, weighing about 8 fluid ounces.  Nutritional breakdown of vanilla yogurt is as follows:

• Total fat = 3.1 grams
• Saturated fat = 1.97 grams
• Cholesterol = 12 mg
• Sodium = 162 mg
• Potassium = 537 mg
• Sugar = 33.81 mg

Properties Of Vanilla And Its Health Benefits

Vanilla has been known since ages old. Though its uses in the kitchen surpass its medical uses, it has been used to cure various ailments. In ancient times, it was known to be an aphrodisiac. This is yet to be proved scientifically; however, it is still used as for its aphrodisiac properties in aromatherapy. Health benefits of vanilla also include the ability to reduce stress.  Research has indicated that claustrophobia can be treated using vanilla in aromatherapy. It also contains high levels of antioxidants. This helps to fight free radicals in the body and thus prevents cancer and aging.

Side Effects Of Vanilla

Vanilla has little known side effects. However, consuming too much of it can cause headaches and insomnia. In addition, contact with the skin can cause itchiness. After consuming vanilla-based products if you experience discomfort, please do not hesitate to show your doctor immediately.  People with Gilbert’s syndrome should avoid consuming vanilla unless cleared by the doctor.

Tips On Vanilla Intake

Vanilla is mostly consumed as an extract, a powder, or in its original pod form. It adds an excellent flavor and is popularly used in food. To conclude, here are a few simple tips to keep in mind while consuming vanilla in the future:

• The recommended quantity of vanilla would be small amounts, mostly as a flavoring on food.  If taken as a medicine or a supplement, it is wise to consult a doctor or a pharmacist for the suitable dosage.
• There is no defined time frame that determines when to consume vanilla. As long as it is taken in small quantities, you can consume it at any time.
• As vanilla is an add-on in most edible goods, healthy ways to eat vanilla would include all those foods that add nutrition to the body without adding extra calories and sugar.
• Buying vanilla from authentic traders would ensure that the quality of vanilla is maintained. Buying from unknown sources maybe a cheaper option, but it can compromise on the quality.

Storage tips for vanilla can improve its quality over time. Vanilla beans should be kept in a cool, dark place, like a basement. They should be kept in an airtight container and aired a few times a year. Such care can prolong the life of the beans by a few years. Vanilla extract also should be stored in a cool and dark place.