Maple Syrup Benefits
Who knew maple syrup was so good for you?
Maple syrup, which is produced by boiling down sap collected from the sugar maple tree (species name Acer saccharum), is now among the “most commonly consumed natural sweeteners worldwide.” What are the benefits of maple syrup?
Maple Syrup Health Benefits
- Contains Numerous Antioxidants
- Has a Lower Score on the Glycemic Index
- May Help Fight Inflammatory and Neurodegenerative Diseases
- May Help Protect Against Cancer
- Helps Protect Skin Health
- Alternative to Sugar for Improved Digestion
- Supplies Important Vitamins and Minerals
- Healthier Alternative to Artificial Sweeteners
- May Enhance Antibiotic Effects
- Improves Male Reproductive Health
Refined sugar, corn syrup and agave nectar contain minimal antioxidant activity, while maple syrup, dark and blackstrap molasses, brown sugar, and raw honey have been shown to have higher antioxidant capacity.
The antioxidants found in maple syrup are mostly in the form of phenolic compounds. Phenolic compounds are found in a variety of plant foods — including berries, nuts and whole grains — and are considered to have significant benefits when it comes to the prevention of chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes and cancer.