What are the benefits of palm sugar? A deep dive into its value that is more than just a sweetener.

As a long-standing sweet condiment in Thai cuisine, palm sugar is not only known for its unique aroma and mellow flavor, but it also contains some nutritional benefits that make it stand out from regular white sugar. This article will take you on a journey to explore the interesting values and benefits of palm sugar.

What is palm sugar ?

Palm sugar is sugar obtained from the nectar that collects from the male inflorescence or female inflorescence of the palm tree (Borassus flabellifer), which is a palm tree that is abundant in southern Thailand, especially in Phetchaburi and Songkhla provinces.

The production process of authentic palm sugar still follows traditional wisdom, which is to carefully simmer fresh sugar over a wood stove until all the เว็บพนันออนไลน์ UFABET สมัครง่าย โปรโมชั่นมากมาย water evaporates. This results in thick liquid sugar, granulated sugar, or fine sugar as desired, without going through bleaching or chemical processes like white granulated sugar.

Interesting benefits of palm sugar

Real palm sugar produced in the traditional way will still retain some of the nutrients and minerals from fresh sugar. Giving it some benefits that are different from refined white sugar.

1. Rich in essential minerals

• Unlike white sugar, which has been refined and has lost almost all of its minerals, real palm sugar still contains many important minerals, such as:
• Potassium: Plays a key role in maintaining fluid balance in the body, regulating blood pressure, and aiding in muscle and nervous system function.
• Iron: Essential for the production of red blood cells and prevents anemia.
• Calcium: Strengthens bones and teeth.
• Magnesium: Helps with muscle function, nervous system, and energy production.
• It may also contain small amounts of zinc and sodium.

2. Contains vitamin B group.

Palm sugar may also contain some B vitamins, such as vitamin B1 (thiamine) and vitamin B2 (riboflavin), which help the body metabolize energy.

3. The Glycemic Index (GI) is lower.

Some research suggests that palm sugar may have a slightly lower glycemic index than white sugar. This means that consuming palm sugar may not cause blood sugar levels to spike as quickly as consuming white sugar, allowing the body to better control blood sugar levels. However, it is important to understand that “slightly lower” does not mean. That it can be consumed without limit, and it is still a sugar that should be limited in quantity.

4. Contains antioxidants

Since it is a natural product. That has not been bleached or processed with harsh chemicals, palm sugar may still contain some antioxidants that help protect the body’s cells from damage by free radicals and reduce inflammation.

5. Unique aroma and taste

Although it is not a direct nutritional benefit, the mild caramel aroma and sweet, well-rounded, non-sharp taste of palm sugar can add a delicious dimension to food and drinks very well. Therefore, sometimes it is not necessary to use as much sugar as white sugar to achieve the desired taste.

Precautions for consumption

Despite the above-mentioned benefits, the most important thing is to remember that palm sugar is still “sugar”, which provides high amounts of energy and carbohydrates. Consuming it in excessive amounts can also have negative effects on health, such as weight gain, risk of diabetes and other non-communicable chronic diseases. Therefore, consuming palm sugar should be in moderation according to nutritional recommendations. You should also choose to buy real palm sugar that is produced in the traditional way, without mixing granulated sugar or other additives, in order to get the most benefits.

Palm sugar is an interesting natural sweetener option. With the benefits of minerals, vitamins, antioxidants and a glycemic index that may be slightly lower than white sugar. Including a unique aroma and taste. Choosing real palm sugar in cooking and beverages not only enhances the deliciousness. But also brings the value from the wisdom and heritage of the palm tree to our better health. However, the key to consuming all types of sweetness is “moderation” so that the body receives the most benefits without affecting health.