Health Benefits of Maple Syrup

Antioxidants - Antioxidants have been shown to help prevent cancer, support the immune system, lower blood pressure and slow the effects of aging. The medical journal Pharmaceutical Biology revealed that pure maple syrup contains up to 24 different antioxidants.  These antioxidants, in the form of phenolic compounds, are beneficial for reducing free radical damage that can cause inflammation and contribute to the formation of various chronic diseases.

Minerals - Maple syrup is high in manganese and zinc, with a 1/4 of a cup of syrup offering 95 percent and 6 percent of the recommended daily values, respectively. Manganese is an important cofactor for several enzymes that are needed for energy production and antioxidant defenses. Zinc is essential for optimal immune system function and is also one of best minerals know to prevent heart disease.  In addition, higher levels of zinc in men are known to decrease the occurrence of prostate cancer and the size of the prostate gland.  Deficiencies of these minerals may lower white blood cell counts and subsequently reduce immune system responses.

Maple syrup also contains other minerals including calcium, magnesium, potassium, iron, and phosphorus. 

Vitamins - Pure Maple Syrup is a source of several vitamins. Vitamins are organic nutrients essential for cell functioning. The most notable vitamins in maple syrup include B2/riboflavin (37% daily value for a 1/4 cup of syrup), niacin, B5, B6, biotin, folic acid and vitamin A. Niacin and both of the B vitamins assist in the energy metabolism of body cells. B5 is a component of a significant enzyme that enables the release of energy from the energy nutrients. Vitamin B6 is important in protein and amino acid metabolism and enables conversion of one type of amino acid to another kind that is needed in higher amounts. Vitamin A is significant for vision and for maintaining the skin and the linings of the body, such as the stomach lining.

Lower Glycemic Index - Maple Syrup has a lower Glycemic Index than refined sugars. Refined sugar and refined carbohydrates in general have a higher Glycemic Index and are known to be rapidly metabolized by the liver, causing a sugar high, followed by a quick sugar crash; On the other hand maple syrup has a low glycerin index that makes an excellent alternative to refined sugar. 

Fights Inflammatory Diseases - Because maple syrup nutrition supplies inflammation-reducing polyphenol antioxidants, it can be considered part of a healthy diet that’s helpful in preventing certain diseases like arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease,  or heart disease. Maple syrup’s plant-based compounds reduce oxidative stress, which is responsible for aging us at a quicker rate and reducing the strength of our immune system.

Help Protect Skin Health - Maple Syrup can be used to help lower skin inflammation, redness, blemishes, and dryness. Combined with raw milk or yogurt, rolled oats and raw honey, this natural mixture applied to the skin as a mask can hydrate skin while reducing bacteria and signs of irritation. 

Alternative to Sugar for Improved Digestion - Most artificial sweeteners cause symptoms of indigestion, including gas, bloating, cramping and constipation. To keep the digestive tract in healthier shape, free from chemicals and the damage done by a high-sugar diet, maple syrup can be a much better alternative to use in baked goods, yogurt, oatmeal or smoothies.