Sugar has never been an alley to humans, especially since our lifestyle became sedentary, glued to the work table. But since many people find it difficult to quit sugar and resort to a sugar-free lifestyle, they could start with sugar substitutes to stop worrying about bad consequences. In the series, first comes the Organic Coconut Sugar that is harvested from the Coconut flower sap and reduced to granules. At present, it is one of the most prudent choices because it’s vegan and has a lot of nutritional benefits.
But coconut sugar is not alone. You may find a few other sweeteners such as Maple Syrup, Date Syrup, Raw Honey, and Blackstrap Molasses in the queue to win the trophy of the healthiest alternative. Therefore, let’s quickly understand and compare other sugar alternatives compared with Coconut Sugar.
Also read: Why & How To Use Coconut Sugar?
Before you jump to the pros and cons of each contender, here is a quick definition of all of them.
- Organic Coconut Sugar
Coconut sugar is a vegan option that is nutrient-dense and versatile in use. It has the right amount of electrolyte and potassium. Coconut sugar with low GI (Glycemic Index) can help regulate blood sugar with the help of Inulin present in it. Inulin helps control blood sugar spike and aids in carbohydrate digestion. It can be well-substituted for cooking and baking.
- Maple Syrup
Maple syrup is a minimally processed sugar alternative with a low fructose level. It contains minerals and antioxidants such as zinc, magnesium, manganese, riboflavin, etc. It is also a vegan alternative because it is sourced from trees.
- Date Syrup
Date Syrup does not affect blood sugar levels in real-time because it has a low Glycemic Index and fructose content. The nutrients it holds are phosphorus, zinc, and magnesium, with a high level of antioxidants.
- Blackstrap Molasses
Nutritionally superior to many sweeteners, Blackstrap Molasses is known to have high calcium, iron, and potassium levels. It is generally the by-product of regular sugar, undergone processing thrice to remove the sucrose. Blackstrap Molasses is a vegan and plant-based product.
- Raw Honey
Raw Honey is the nectar sucked and collected in beehives by the honey bees. It has sugar along with electrolytes, amino acids, and antioxidants. Raw Honey is utilized not only as a substitute for sugar but also as a topical application for antiseptic properties. It also has a lower Glycemic Index than regular sugar but contains high fructose levels. Unfortunately, it’s not considered vegan.
The table of difference
Coconut Sugar | Maple Syrup | Raw Honey | Date Syrup | Blackstrap Molasses | |
Glycemic Index (GI) | 54 | 54 | 58 | 47 +/- 2 | 55 |
Fiber Content | Inulin | NIL | NIL | NIL | NIL |
Vegan | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes |
Calories (100 g) | 375 kcal | 260 kcal | 304 kcal | 288 kcal | 290 kcal |
Electrolytes | Potassium, Magnesium, Sodium, Zinc and Calcium | Sodium and Potassium | Sodium, Potassium, magnesium and Calcium | Potassium and Magnesium | Potassium, Calcium and Magnesium |
Carbohydrate (100 g) | 100 g | 67 g | 77 g | 75 g | 62 |
Processed | Organic | Lightly processed | Organic | Lightly processed | Highly processed |
From the above table, you can clearly understand that Organic Coconut Sugar definitely has the edge over other forms of sweeteners. Therefore, shifting your goals from regular sugar to coconut sugar can benefit you greatly.
Few benefits of using Organic Coconut Sugar
- Coconut sugar has a low glycemic index; thus, it raises blood sugar levels slower compared to regular sugar.
- Coconuts sugar is highly nutritious and antioxidant-rich. It contains iron, calcium, etc.
- Coconut sugar contains a low fructose level breakdown which produces triglyceride. That’s why it does not result in weight gain.
- Coconut sugar has high electrolyte levels, with Potassium, Magnesium, Zinc, Calcium, and Sodium adding to its profile. Consumption of it regulates water levels of the body.
- Coconut sugar helps maintain healthy gut bacteria as it has Inulin (healthy fiber). It aids sugar digestion and limits sudden blood sugar level spikes.
- Last but not least, it is a plant-based and vegan sugar source. You don’t hurt animals anyway during the production of Organic Coconut Sugar.
So, with all benefits coming in handy, why don’t you stop using the regular sugar and add coconut sugar into your daily regimen. You can order coconut sugar from Diet Angel.
You can also read: Interesting Facts About Coconut Sugar!