Molasses Blackstrap Molasses offers several health benefits along with a rich flavor. Molasses is the most popular sweetener because it is much more affordable than refined sugar. Read on to learn more about what Blackstrap Molasses is and what it does.
1. What is Molasses?
Blackstrap Molasses is a byproduct of the sugar cane refining process. The sugar cane is crushed to create juice. It is then boiled once to make cane syrup. Boiled a second time to make molasses. After the syrup is boiled a third time, a viscous liquid emerges that Americans call blackstrap molasses. It has the lowest sugar content of any sugar cane product. The boiling process of molasses creates three types, each with different amounts of sugar and nutrients. Molasses is the most concentrated form, blackstrap molasses, which is produced during the third boil. It is thicker and darker than other types of molasses and has a slightly bitter taste.
The magic of blackstrap molasses is that it is not like refined sugar (which has no nutritional value). Molasses contains important vitamins and minerals such as:
- Iron
- Calcium
- Magnesium
- Vitamin B6
- Selenium
Molasses are classified according to how many times the syrup is boiled and the sugar is extracted. Molasses is extracted during the first (light), second (dark) or third (black) boil. Blackstrap is the darkest, thickest and most concentrated molasses. It has a strong flavor, so it is used in savory recipes rather than sweet ones. Blackstrap molasses is also the most nutritious type of molasses because it contains more essential vitamins and minerals than other types of molasses. Boiling further concentrates those nutrients.
You will also see sulfur or sulfur-free varieties. Sulfured means that sulfur is added during the sugar production process to keep the raw sugar cane fresh, kill unwanted bacteria, and whiten the sugar crystals. However, many cooks prefer to use sulfur-free molasses to avoid an unpleasant aftertaste. Since molasses does not spoil quickly, no preservatives are needed. Unsulfured molasses also contains no sodium dioxide, preservatives, or known allergens.
Blackstrap molasses is also considered a superfood. While it is not a miracle cure, it is a source of important nutrients. Some of the benefits of molasses include:
Strengthens bones: Everyone knows that calcium is essential for strong bones, but not everyone knows the importance of magnesium in developing them. Blackstrap molasses contains both calcium and magnesium, so it can help you fight osteoporosis. About 1 tablespoon of blackstrap molasses provides 8% of the daily value for calcium and 10% of magnesium. Adequate magnesium intake is also important in preventing conditions like osteoporosis and asthma, along with other conditions that can affect your blood and heart.
Good for the Blood: People with anemia—a condition in which the body doesn’t have enough red blood cells—often feel tired and weak. One type of anemia is caused by a lack of iron in the diet. Blackstrap molasses is a great source of iron. About 1 tablespoon of blackstrap molasses contains 20 percent of the daily value of iron.
- High in Potassium: Bananas may be the king of fruits when it comes to potassium, but blackstrap molasses is also high in potassium. One tablespoon of some brands of blackstrap molasses can contain as much potassium as half a banana, which is about 300 milligrams per tablespoon. Potassium is considered a good mineral for easing muscle cramps after a workout. However, another muscle can benefit from this mineral: the heart muscle. In people with high blood pressure, potassium supplements can help lower blood pressure. Furthermore, eating a diet rich in potassium can help reduce your risk of stroke. This mineral can also prevent or control water retention.
- A frizz remover: Along with providing your body with important minerals, blackstrap molasses can also be used to remove frizz from bleached, permed, or dyed hair. While pouring the syrup directly onto your hair is a bad idea, you can mix it with warm water and apply it to your hair for 15 minutes. It can also be combined with other hair-friendly ingredients like your regular shampoo or coconut milk.
2. 12 Health Benefits of Molasses
A spoonful of blackstrap molasses daily can provide your body with many important nutrients. Blackstrap molasses is known for its high iron content—a tablespoon of it contains about 20 percent of the recommended daily value—but it’s also a rich source of natural calcium, magnesium, and potassium. It’s also a good source of nutrients like manganese, vitamin B6, and selenium. And a tablespoon of blackstrap molasses contains just 42 calories. Here are some other health benefits it may provide:
- Boosts Hair Health - The anti-aging antioxidants like selenium, manganese and zinc in blackstrap molasses work from the inside out to soften hair, reduce hair loss and greying. Taking a tablespoon of blackstrap molasses daily can help us have healthy hair.
- Reduces Arthritis - The anti-inflammatory properties in moringa molasses help alleviate the discomfort and symptoms of arthritis by reducing swelling, joint inflammation and pain.
- Promotes Strong Bones - Its rich source of calcium aids in healing and improves the health of bones and connective tissues.
- Boosts Brain Power - Calcium, magnesium and vitamin B in blackstrap molasses fight fatigue, anxiety and stress while boosting brain function, mood and concentration.
- Prevents Anemia - Since blackstrap molasses contains iron, it helps in the production of hemoglobin and red blood cells to prevent anemia.
- Stabilizes blood sugar levels - The low glycemic index of natural molasses slows down the metabolism of glucose and carbohydrates, resulting in less insulin release. This is a healthier alternative to refined sugar, which is especially helpful for people with diabetes.
- Reduces symptoms of menstruation- The iron, magnesium, and calcium in molasses help relieve menstrual cramps and PMS symptoms.
- Improves skin health - Use topically to soften and exfoliate the skin. Its lactic acid content can treat acne, eczema and other skin conditions. To apply, wet your face and pat the molasses onto your skin as directed. Leave on for five minutes before removing with a warm, wet cloth.
- Aids digestion - If you feel too full after a large meal, a spoonful of molasses can be an effective remedy as it can stimulate digestion
- Remedy for constipation - Blackstrap molasses is a natural stool softener and prevents constipation.
- Increase Stamina and Energy - If you feel tired and sluggish. Consume a spoonful of blackstrap molasses to boost your energy.
- Improve Sleep Quality - Drinking blackstrap molasses before bed, calcium and magnesium helps the body relax and promote good sleep. Many people mix a tablespoon with warm milk (dairy or non-dairy) for a delicious drink at bedtime.
3. How to Use Blackstrap Molasses
Blackstrap molasses itself can be a bit difficult to swallow. Partly because it is very thick, partly because it is slightly bitter and does not tend to go down without some liquid form. Here are some ways to help you incorporate blackstrap molasses into your daily diet:
- Drink with a glass of warm water: Add a spoonful of blackstrap molasses to hot water and drink it warm or cold as a dietary supplement. If you need more flavor, add it to tea or lemonade.
- Uses in place of regular molasses: Try mixing blackstrap molasses into baked beans instead of brown sugar or molasses.
You can also use it as a topping for the following foods:
- Chicken
- Turkey
- Other meats
Blackstrap molasses cookies are a great idea. You don’t have to save them for the holidays. Their slightly spicy flavor is a welcome addition to any party.
Because of the thick, sticky nature of blackstrap molasses, they can be useful for snacks or “breakfast cookies.” It helps hold ingredients together and provides a little sweetness in moderation.
A spoonful of blackstrap molasses can also help you gain muscle quickly. If you have trouble cutting down on thick syrups, just keep a glass of water handy. Consider it your daily multivitamin.
Blackstrap molasses is considered a superfood because of the vast health benefits it can provide. An opened jar of molasses, tightly sealed after each use, can be used for about a year. The key to extending the shelf life is to keep the lid tightly closed when not in use. Discard immediately if there are signs of mold, bad taste or odor. Refrigeration is not necessary. If you choose to keep it in the refrigerator, let the jar come to room temperature before use for easier pouring. And buy 100% organic molasses when possible.
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References: healthline.com, farmersalmanac.com
