Maple Syrup : not a miracle food after all | Diabetes Québec (2024)

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Maple Syrup : not a miracle food after all | Diabetes Québec? ›

If you only read the headlines, you might think that maple syrup is a new miracle food. However, you need to take these claims with a grain of salt. To date, research has been done entirely in the lab, in test tubes (in vitro) or with non-diabetic rats, but not yet on humans.

Maple syrup has the same antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties as green tea, which is also a superfood. Maple syrup offers health benefits, just like blueberries, red wine and tea. Because of its antioxidant, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, maple syrup helps prevent cancer and Type 2 diabetes.

While it lacks vitamins, maple syrup is rich in certain minerals, such as manganese. It also has antioxidants that may offer health benefits, such as lowering cholesterol and supporting brain health. But, its high sugar content can lead to tooth decay and further health problems for people with diabetes.

Québec produces an average 72% of the entire world's maple syrup. Québec accounts for an average 90% of Canadian production. Québec's maple industry contributes $1.1 Billion to Canada's gross domestic product (GDP). Maple syrup means economic vitality in our regions, creating the equivalent of 12,600 full-time jobs.

And while maple syrup may have a lower glycemic index than table sugar, it still raises your blood sugar — albeit more slowly. The bottom line is this: Natural doesn't always mean it's good for you. Yes, pure maple syrup is less processed than other added sugars.

Maple syrup is a healthier alternative, but consuming it in excess can have an adverse effect on an individual's health. Here are some of the possible side effects and potential risks it may lead to. Consuming it in excess may increase calorie intake and manganese levels. It may increase the risk of chronic diseases.

A recent maple syrup study has shown that the delicious liquid contains a molecule called quebecol, which has anti-inflammatory properties. The purpose of anti-inflammatory substances are simple; they work to reduce inflammation!

Quebec syrup producers say their business contributes $1.1 billion to gross domestic product, creates the equivalent of 12,600 full-time jobs and generates tax revenues of $235 million.

This is because Canada – especially Quebec, where 92% of Canadian maple syrup is produced – has an ideal climate for syrup production. Late Canadian winters have the perfect mixture of cold nights and warm days. In addition, Canada is home to an abundance of sugar maples – all perfect candidates for tree tapping.

"The strategic reserve was put in place to stabilise supply - which is highly weather dependent - for buyers," he said. "In the last four years, that is exactly what it has done." Coupled with the poor harvest years is a rising demand for for the golden product.

Which is healthier, honey or maple syrup? ›

Both offer benefits in the form of either vitamins or minerals, and both offer protective antioxidant activity. Putting taste aside, as the two have different flavors — honey is more floral while maple syrup is more woodsy — maple syrup tends to be the slightly healthier choice, but we enjoy both throughout the year.

It is healthier to stick to organic and pure maple syrup – or “real maple syrup” as it is sometimes called.

Not only is maple syrup more nutritious and less heavily processed than agave syrup, but it can also be used in a wider range of recipes, making for a great addition to sauces, glazes and marinades as well as iced coffees, co*cktails and classic bakes.

These sugars are primarily derived from simple sugars fructose. They also have a trace of carbohydrates and even lesser amounts of sucrose. Between honey or maple syrup, maple syrup is the healthier alternative because it contains less sugar as a whole. And essentially, it has less fructose.

If you're going to reach for one over the other, maple syrup contains the fewest sugars, calories, and carbohydrates per serving.

It's less processed than regular table sugars and therefore contains more nutrients like vitamins, minerals & antioxidants which help improve your health. Maple Syrup also scores lower on the glycemic index so it's an excellent choice if you want to maintain stable blood glucose levels while enjoying delicious treats!

What grade maple syrup is healthiest? Whether it's for use in a master cleanse or as a topping for your pancakes, Grade A Dark will be better for you. It has more antioxidants and mineral content than the lighter colors.