Honey Vs Maple Syrup- Which Is Healthier? See What Experts Say
When deciding which one is healthier, it's important to consider your dietary preferences, nutritional needs, and how each sweetener fits into your overall diet.
Honey and maple syrup, both are natural sweeteners and provide numerous health benefits. It depends on personal prefrences which one would you choose. Each has its own unique flavour, nutritional profile, and potential health benefits. When deciding which one is healthier, it's important to consider your dietary preferences, nutritional needs, and how each sweetener fits into your overall diet.
Nutritional Benefits Of Honey And Maple Syrup:
Talking about honey, Jashan Vij, who is a Health and Fat Loss Coach said the following:
- It contains trace amounts of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, along with natural sugars like fructose and glucose.
- Importantly, honey typically has a lower glycaemic index compared to table sugar, meaning it has a milder effect on blood sugar levels. However, it can be an allergen for some individuals, and it's not recommended for infants under one year due to the risk of botulism.
Dr. Sangeeta Tiwari who is a Clinical Nutritionist at Artemis Lite, NFC, New Delhi spoke about the benefits of Maple syrup and said that it has a range of benefits, making it more than just a delicious pancake topping. Here are some of its key benefits listed by her:
- Natural Sweetener: Maple syrup is a natural alternative to refined sugar, making it a healthier choice. Unlike processed sugars, it contains fewer empty calories and gives essential nutrients.
- Antioxidant-Rich: It is loaded with antioxidants, including compounds like polyphenols, which help in combating oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. These antioxidants contribute to overall health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
- Nutrient Content: Maple syrup is rich in essential minerals like manganese, zinc, and calcium. These minerals are important for bone health, immune function, and overall well-being.
- Lower Glycemic Index: Maple syrup has a lower glycemic index compared to table sugar, meaning it doesn't cause rapid spikes in blood sugar levels. This makes it a better choice for individuals with diabetes or those aiming to manage their blood sugar levels,.
- Potential Anti-Inflammatory Effects: As suggested by some studies, the compounds in maple syrup may have anti-inflammatory properties, which can be beneficial for reducing the risk of inflammatory conditions.
- Versatile Flavour: Maple syrup's unique, rich flavor adds depth to many dishes, from breakfast items like pancakes and waffles to glazes for meats and vegetables.
Which one is healthier?
According to Mayuri Rastogi who is an Assistant professor of Nutrition and Dietetics Department at Sharda University, "Maple syrup has low glycemic index than honey, so more suitable for diabetics, however, they both have sugars, so must be taken in limitations. Maple syrup is good amount of calcium, magnesium, and potassium, however, honey contain, good amount of niacin and vitamin C, which maple syrup lacks. Honey is sweeter, thus used in small quantity and boost up the immunity and weight loss in comparison to maple syrup. Other than this, honey has antibacterial properties, which is not found in maple syrup. Thus, honey is good for weight loss, boost immune system and improve memory, on the other hand, maple syrup is good for diabetics and healthier skin."
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