When deciding to limit refined sugars I needed to quickly find some substitutions that Doug and I could live with. I have always been an advocate for “real” sugar so synthetics were never an option. After doing some research I discovered that one of the healthiest substitutes for white sugar is Real Maple Syrup. Maple syrup is available in liquid and in powder. The powder form is expensive but super tasty! We usually use the liquid version which we buy at a very reasonable price at Costco. The bottle lasts us about 3 months. Doug uses it in his coffee several times a week. The great thing about it is that a little bit goes a LONG way.In doing my research I discovered many health benefits of Maple syrup that I thought I would share with you. My philosophy is that habits won’t change if you don’t know all the benefits.
Perks of Maple Syrup
Perks of Maple Syrup
- Cancer Fighter- University of Rhode Island had a study that found that maple syrup is loaded with polyphenols. Polyphenols are plant based compounds that work as antioxidants. These antioxidants assist with inflammation. I have addressed in previous posts how bad inflammation is for our overall health. Inflammatory related diseases are cancer, osteoporosis, and Alzheimer’s.
- Youth Booster- Antioxidants have also been shown to be natural anti-agers. Many Spa’s have started using maple syrup in their hand and facial scrubs. (Facial recipe- 1tbsp warm milk, 1tbsp maple syrup, 3 tbsp finely ground oats. message gently onto your face, leave for 20min, then wash thoroughly and moisturize)
- Tummy Trouble Fighter- refined sugars attack the GI tract causing indigestion, gas, and bloating. These sugars are difficult for our bodies to digest. They spike our blood sugars and send our bodies into a tail-spin. Substitute maple syrup in baking. Add the same amount of maple syrup as you would white sugar but reduce the amount of liquid a recipe calls for by about a half-cup.
- Immune Booster- Maple syrup contains natural zinc and manganese which are known nutrients that help ward off illness. Zinc raises white blood cells which is needed to increase your resistance to illness. Manganese protects immune cells from inflammation and damage.
If you are worried about the calories in maple syrup remember when comparing white to maple the calorie count is slightly higher in maple but you need much less. Also, it is kinder on your body so your body processes it out cleaner. Less insulin spikes equals less hunger for sweets later.
So they next time you are thinking about sprinkling on the white sugar or opening up the packet of your favorite artificial sweeter think- Maple Syrup!
Health.com- for some post research
