The coconut tree is dubbed the “tree of life” because coconuts offer many benefits. Some of the well-known applications of coconuts are the husks being used as cleaning materials and made into ropes. Aside from that, coconut fruit also offers various uses for food and oil extracts, which are proven to give a wide array of health benefits to the body, such as better skin and teeth. One particular benefit of coconut that has seen a steady rise in popularity in recent years is coconut sugar.
As the name suggests, coconut sugar comes from the coconut tree, specifically its sap. For this reason, it’s also called coconut palm sugar. A flower from the tree is cut to create it, and the sap is drained into containers. The sap is then heated, removing the water from the sap itself—resulting in brown granules that look very similar to brown sugar.
Coconut sugar offers many benefits, which we will learn of in this article. Read on below to learn more.
More about Coconut Sugar
There are two things that you should know regarding coconut sugar. First and foremost, it’s not refined like white table sugar. Since it’s not refined, coconut sugar does not contain any artificial additives or preservatives. It also doesn’t undergo any chemical treatments, so it’s as natural as it gets.
For the second thing, coconut sugar has a low glycemic index. To understand better, think about this: have you ever felt weak after eating too many carbs? This is because the sugar spikes your blood sugar levels—this instance is known as a sugar crash. It’s often linked to the food’s glycemic index. Coconut sugar having a low glycemic index essentially means that you’re not going to experience sugar crashes too often.
The Benefits of Using Coconut Sugar
The benefits of using coconut sugar are as follows:
Consistent Energy Levels
Since coconut sugar’s low glycemic index saves you from a sugar crash, you’ll have plenty more energy throughout the day. If you’re busy during the day, such as with work, chances are you might doze off in the afternoon. This can be attributed to the peaking and dipping of our blood sugar because of the food we eat, and this won’t be a problem if you use coconut sugar every day.
It’s Nutrient-Dense
It’s no secret that sugar is just calories that have no nutritional value and can do more harm than good in the long run. While coconut sugar contains the same amount of calories as table sugar, it also contains essential nutrients such as calcium, iron, potassium, and zinc.
Reduces Weight Gain
Another stark difference between coconut sugar and regular sugar is that the former contains less fructose than the latter. Fructose is turned into triglycerides, which are fat deposits. The low amount of fructose in coconut sugar essentially means that you’ll be safe from radical weight gain.
Regulates Blood Sugar
Our bodies rely on glucose for energy, which can be found in sugar. Like any other type of sugar, coconut sugar raises blood sugar to prevent low blood sugar and hypoglycemia, making a person feel nauseous, shaky, and sweaty. The worst-case scenario is that it can lead to seizures and, eventually, coma. If you want to regulate your blood glucose and fructose levels, coconut sugar is the best choice for you.
Conclusion
Coconut sugar is way healthier than other types of sugar. Despite its benefits, however, it should still be taken moderately since it’s still sugar. The recommended amount of coconut sugar to take is at least one teaspoon. It may be less, but you will still feel the sweetness and nutrition.
Ceylon Exports & Trading provides organic coconut sugar in wholesale and retail options. We believe that everyone should have access to healthier alternatives to food, so we also offer other products such as coconut oils, cream, and desiccated coconut. Simply go to our website and take your pick!
