Is palm sugar good for your health? Benefits and drawbacks

Palm sugar is a popular sweetener in Southeast Asia and Africa. While scientific evidence supports claims about its benefits, studies are ongoing to confirm its health benefits and risks.

1. The palmyra palm tree

The palmyra palm tree belongs to the palm family and is commonly found in Cambodia. In our country, the palmyra palm tree is often found in several provinces in the Southern region, including An Giang and Kien Giang, which are adjacent to Cambodia.
What is palm sugar made from? Palm sugar is made from the fruits of the palmyra palm tree and is made into round or square pieces resembling rock sugar, with a yellowish color, or it can also be made into white palm sugar. Those who are connoisseurs of palm sugar often prefer the ivory-colored variety because it retains its natural flavor better than the refined white palm sugar.

2. The benefits of palm sugar

2.1. Palm sugar provides a diverse range of minerals

Palm sugar is rich in essential minerals for the body. According to research on the effects of palm sugar, the mineral content in palm sugar is over 60 times higher than that of other types of sugar, especially white granulated sugar.
Furthermore, the nutritional composition of palm sugar contains a significant amount of vitamins. Therefore, palm sugar is considered an excellent way to help women suffering from anemia. Since palm sugar is also rich in iron, it can be added to the daily diet to help these women improve their anemia condition.

Palm sugar is rich in iron, which can help improve your anemia condition
Palm sugar is rich in iron, which can help improve your anemia condition

2.2. Palm sugar helps restore the health of the digestive system

What does palm sugar do? Palm sugar contains compounds that can act as digestive aids. In India, it is common for people to eat small pieces of palm sugar after meals to facilitate the digestion of food. When this sugar enters the stomach, it helps stimulate the activity of digestive enzymes and aids in cleansing the intestines.

2.3. Palm sugar also helps promote healthy and radiant skin

Palm sugar is known for its various benefits for the skin, helping it become  healthy and glowing. If you have acne-prone skin, you can use palm sugar daily, and you may notice its effects, leading to a flawless complexion.

2.4. The rich nutritional composition of palm sugar offers numerous health benefits

Palm sugar has a relatively high iron content. Therefore, regular consumption of palm sugar can help improve and increase hemoglobin levels, as well as treat iron deficiency anemia. Additionally, the magnesium content in palm sugar is also at an optimal level, which helps regulate the nervous system.
Moreover, palm sugar contains antioxidants that help protect the body's cells from damage caused by free radicals.

2.5. Palm sugar helps replenish energy for the body

Is palm sugar fatty? Palm sugar contains carbohydrates that allow the body to digest them more quickly compared to white sugar. Therefore, using this type of sugar releases stored energy more frequently.
Thanks to palm sugar, you will feel fuller for longer and have reduced cravings when consuming dishes prepared with palm sugar.

2.6. Palm sugar has effects on migraine symptoms

Migraine is a common condition nowadays. The natural compounds present in palm sugar can help alleviate the pain caused by migraines. Consuming about 20 grams of palm sugar when experiencing these symptoms can significantly reduce the pain associated with migraines.

The natural compounds found in palm sugar can help soothe the pain caused by migraines.
The natural compounds found in palm sugar can help soothe the pain caused by migraines.

2.7. Palm sugar helps prevent constipation

Palm sugar can aid in the smooth and regular functioning of the digestive system, helping to prevent constipation, especially in infants. It also contains various enzymes that stimulate digestion and promote the digestive process in newborns. When palm sugar is consumed, it is absorbed by the body, facilitating the detoxification process and cleansing the liver.

2.8. Palm sugar helps strengthen bones

Palm sugar is a rich source of minerals, including calcium and phosphorus - essential compounds for the development of bones and tissues in young children.

2.9. Palm sugar helps combat cold and flu symptoms

Palm sugar contains numerous antioxidants along with minerals such as selenium and zinc, which help protect and enhance the immune system while preventing the activity of free radicals that can cause cellular damage. Consuming palm sugar can help fight infections and boost immunity.
For cold and flu illnesses, palm sugar is also highly regarded for its ability to alleviate these symptoms and improve health, especially in young children, who are particularly susceptible to these illnesses during seasonal changes.

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Reference source: webmd.com 
 

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