Image Source: Finedininglovers

Though artificial sugar may be free from calories, the innumerable health problems that they pose make them a not-so-good dietary product. Artificial sweeteners have a negative impact on the health and can lead to innumerable health problems which also include weight gain, depression, anxiety, fatigue and short-term memory loss among many more.

Instead of refined sugar, the use of maple sugar and honey leads to a healthy life, free from ailments and disease. Maple syrup can be included in various meals in innumerable ways; it can be added as a flavor to ice creams, sausages and fresh fruits, used as a topping on pancakes, waffles and French toast and as sweetener in baked beans, breads, granolas and cakes.

• Rich in Antioxidants

Maple syrup is rich in antioxidants which is a good reason why one should switch over to using maple syrup. The syrup contains 24 different antioxidants, including gallic acid, benzoic acid and cinnamic acid and flavonoids such as catechins, epicatechins, quercetin and rutin. These antioxidants play a vital role in helping to neutralize the free radicals which cause damage and various ailments like inflammation and chronic diseases. The antioxidant content in darker grade B syrup is more than the lighter syrups. Hence, whenever possible go for the darker maple syrup.

• Contains Essential Nutrients

Maple syrup is rich in nutrients like manganese, which is vital for carbohydrate and fat metabolism, regulation of blood sugar, calcium absorption and brain and nerve function. It also contains zinc, which is required to keep our white blood cells level up which is responsible for providing immunity and fighting illness. The presence of zinc in the body also gives it protection against any cardiovascular disease. Hence, maple syrup strengthens the body’s immune system and cardiovascular system. The syrup also contains other nutrients like calcium and potassium.

• Helps in Fighting Inflammatory Diseases

Maple syrup contains the antioxidants, polyphenol, which has inflammation reducing properties. Making maple syrup a part of your diet reduces the risks of diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease, arthritis and even heart disease. It also protects us from ageing fast.

• Improves Digestion

Refined sugar is the cause of many digestive system disorders like IBS, candida and leaky gut syndrome. These artificial sweeteners can lead to indigestion, including bloating, cramping, gas and constipation. One of the preventive measures against leaky gut syndrome is the cutting away of refined sugar from your diet and switching over to smaller amounts of natural sweeteners. Maple syrup keeps the digestive system in better health free from chemicals. Sugar can hence be substituted with maple syrup in baking, oatmeal, smoothies or yogurt.

• Protects the Health of the Skin

Maple skin can also be used topically on the skin to help reduce skin inflammation, dryness, blemishes or redness. A mixture of maple syrup and honey is a wonderful mask for the skin, hydrating it and at the same time reducing any signs of irritation and bacteria.

Consumed in moderate amount and combined with other whole foods, maple syrup makes a healthier option than artificial white sweeteners anytime. Click here to learn more about the uses of maple syrup.