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Palm Sugar/Karupatti
Palm sugar is made by extracting palm tree sap, which is then heated to remove the moisture content until a thick syrup is obtained. This syrup is then further reduced to crystals. It is a great substitute for white sugar, as palm sugar is packed with essential nutrients, thus proving beneficial for almost each system in the human body.
Health benefits of palm sugar
1. Powerhouse of nutrients
Palm sugar contains numerous minerals like potassium, phosphorus, zinc, iron, magnesium, calcium, manganese and copper, and phytonutrients such as polyphenols, flavonoids and anthocyanidin. Some studies state that it has 60 times more minerals than white sugar. It is also rich in antioxidants and B Vitamins, such as thiamine, riboflavin, folic acid, choline, particularly inositol (Vit8) which contributes to the formation of healthy cells.
2. Most ideal for pregnant women
Since palm sugar is loaded with powerful antioxidants, it prevents cell damage and DNA degradation. Thus, it plays a key role in safeguarding the fetus from potential risks. Palm sugar is highly recommended to be included in the diet of pregnant women, specifically 7 months before the delivery, to provide relief from pregnancy-related discomfort. In addition to this, it also purifies breast milk by removing impurities from it.
3. Controls blood sugar levels
Palm sugar is best known for its low glycemic index, which measures how carbohydrates impact blood sugar levels. A high GI indicates that the food is quickly absorbed by the body, resulting in sudden increase in the blood sugar levels. On the other hand, a low GI means that the food is absorbed gradually, thus facilitating effective blood sugar regulation. Research show that the GI of palm sugar is 35, as opposed to table sugar GI’s at 68. And the cherry on top is, palm sugar also contains a dietary fibre called inulin which greatly helps to control blood sugar levels.
4. Relieves jointpain
As palm sugar is rich in calcium, it can strengthen the bones, resulting in stronger and much healthier
bones. This, in turn, eases joint pain and other related diseases like arthritis.
5. Greatremedy for migraines
Magnesium deficiency is the one of the common causes of migraine. And since, palm sugar contains abundance of magnesium, it can provide great relief from migraines.
6. Nourishes the skin
The numerous vital vitamins present in palm sugar treats many skin problems such as acne,pimples. It also delays the signs of aging by preventing dark spots and wrinkles, thus making the skin glow.
Best ways to consume palm sugar
- Best ways to consume palm sugar
- To seek relief from joint pain, it is advisable to consume jaggery with a pinch of ginger
or a glass of milk.
- Category BENEFITS
- Date 31st, May, 2017
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