Is Coconut Sugar Better For You?

 Being healthy doesn’t mean avoiding all your favorite foods – it’s simply about switching to delicious healthier alternatives!

I used to be a big sugar addict, so one of the first changes I made was to change out our white sugar to coconut sugar to help while I was trying to cut down on my sugar intake. I am way better these days, but I don’t deprive myself from an occasional treat. I learned very fast that coconut sugar opens up a whole world of recipe options. Now, we all need to limit how much sweets we have, but when you do want something, it’s good to know there are healthier ingredients to use instead and still just as delicious.

Where Does Coconut Sugar Come From?

Coconut sugar originates from the flowers of the coconut palm. The sap is collected from the flower buds and heated until the moisture evaporates and it leaves a thick paste that is ground into granules.

Why is Coconut Sugar Healthier Than White Sugar?

Well, first, coconut sugar is loaded with nutrition. White sugar is stripped of nutrients during processing, while coconut sugar has minimal processing, so it retains it’s mineral content, like calcium, iron, zinc and potassium.

Not only is it nutrient dense, coconut sugar (unlike white sugar) creates less havoc with your blood sugar levels. This happens because coconut sugar has a low glycemic index – this tests how quickly a food raises your blood sugar level. Lower is better so your blood sugar level remains stable and not ‘spiked’ by certain foods.

Coconut sugar’s glycemic index has been recorded at 35, whereas other sweeteners like cane sugar generally have a glycemic index well above 50.  (yikes!) Any foods with a high glycemic index can create feelings of hunger, lethargy, and even irritability after eating them, which is why sweeteners like coconut sugar are a better alternative.

Natural sweeteners (like coconut sugar, maple syrup, or molasses) are definitely better choice than refined white sugar but you still need to remember that any sweetener should still be consumed in moderation because they are still a source of sugar. : )

How about you? Do you like/use coconut sugar?

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