The Truth about Coconut Sugar
The documentation of harmful effects of regular sugar on the body has led more and more people to switch to natural sweeteners and coconut sugar is one such alternative that has gained immense popularity.
Sugar, per se, is not only an integral part of our diet but is also vital for proper body functioning. It is table or refined sugar in our daily diet that has been proved to be detrimental effect to our body. Coconut sugar as a sugar substitute is being touted as a healthier option because of its nutritive value and lower glycaemic index.
The following is an analysis of coconut sugar and whether or not it is a healthy and nutritive alternative to regular table sugar.
What is Coconut sugar?
Coconut sugar also known as coco sugar, coconut palm sugar or coco sap sugar is made from the sap of flower buds from the coconut palm tree. It is not made from coconuts, in case you are wondering.
Coconut sugar has been used as a traditional sweetener for centuries in south East Asian countries. It is available in the market in crystal or paste form or as a liquid. It tastes similar to brown sugar with a tinge of caramel.
How is it Made?
Coconut sugar is made naturally in a two-step process. First, farmers make a cut on the coconut palm and collect the sap in bamboo containers. The sap collected is
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However, the glycaemic index only measures glucose and not fructose. Both these compounds are metabolized very differently by the body. While nearly every cell in our body can use glucose, the liver is the only organ that can metabolize fructose and with an increased level, the liver starts turning it into fat. Excessive amounts of fructose can lead to elevated blood pressure, obesity, liver disease, cancer, arthritis among others. So, considering the fact that fructose constitutes 39% of coconut sugar it really isn’t as healthy as the advertisers would want us to