Coconut sugar is produced from a process of evaporation of the sap contained in the flowers of the coconut plant, which is then evaporated in order to eliminate water, giving rise to a brown granulate.
The characteristics of coconut sugar are related to the quality of the fruit, which generally contains minerals such as zinc, calcium, magnesium, potassium, vitamins and fiber.
Coconut sugar is considered healthier than white sugar, as it has a lower glycemic index and a more nutritious composition, but it should be consumed in moderation, due to the high amount of carbohydrates in its composition, being a high caloric value.
What are the benefits
Coconut sugar contains minerals and vitamins, such as vitamin B1, important for the proper functioning of metabolism, calcium and phosphorus, which strengthen teeth and bones, magnesium, which participates in enzymatic activity, in the regulation of calcium and potassium levels, neuronal transmission and metabolism, potassium, which helps regulate high blood pressure, zinc, which strengthens immunity and contributes to mental development, and iron, which is vital for a healthy blood and immune system.
However, it would be necessary to consume high amounts of coconut sugar to satisfy the daily needs of these vitamins and minerals, which would imply the supply of many calories, which would be harmful to health, due to its high fructose content, compared to intake of other foods with the same vitamins and minerals in the composition.
One of the biggest advantages of coconut sugar compared to white sugar, is the presence of inulin in its composition, which is a fiber that causes the sugar to be absorbed more slowly, preventing reaching such a high glycemic peak.
Composition of coconut sugar
Coconut sugar contains vitamins and minerals, such as calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, iron and zinc. In addition, it also has fibers in its composition, which slows down the absorption of sugar, preventing it from reaching such a high glycemic peak, compared to refined sugar.
| Components | Quantity per 100 g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 375 Kcal |
| Protein | 0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 87.5 g |
| Lipids | 0 g |
| Fiber | 12.5 g |
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Is coconut sugar fattening?
Coconut sugar has a high caloric value, due to the presence of fructose in its composition. However, it does not cause a glycemic peak as high as refined sugar, due to the presence of inulin, which delays the absorption of sugars, making the accumulation of fat not so high compared to refined sugar intake.
