Brown Sugar Good for Diabetes ?? Should Diabetics Avoid Brown Sugar ?? Side Effects Of Brown Sugar ??
It is believed that brown sugar is better for diabetes. Is it true? Does it do any good for sugar patients? Let us have a look in this detailed article.
We know white sugar is not your friend if you have high blood sugar levels. But Some people believe brown sugar is better for diabetes. Is it true? Let us have a look in this detailed article- Is Brown Sugar Good for Diabetes?
Brown Sugar: Nutritional Profile
One teaspoon of brown sugar contains 17 calories, 0 grams of fat, cholesterol, and protein, 1 mg of sodium, 5 grams of carbohydrates. The glycemic index score is medium for brown sugar: 64.
So, in 100 grams of sugar, you will find:
Calories | 380 kCal |
Protein | 0.12 grams |
Carbohydrate | 98.09 grams |
Folate | 1.0 mcg |
Niacin | 0.1 mg |
Choline | 2.3 mg |
Pantothenic Acid | 0.1 mg |
Sodium | 28 mg |
Zinc | 0.03 mg |
Magnesium | 9.0 mg |
Selenium | 1.2 mcg |
Copper | 0.047 mg |
Calcium | 83.0 mg |
Betaine | 0.1 mg |
Iron | 0.71 mg |
Potassium | 133.0 mg |
Phosphorus | 4.0 mg |
Manganese | 0.1 mg |
Therefore, if compared to sugar, it is lower in calories, higher in potassium that is good for uterine contractions, and has simple carbohydrates that can be an instant source of energy.
Advantages of Brown Sugar for Diabetes
It is a controversy that brown sugar for diabetes is better than white sugar.
Why do I say that? Because white sugar and brown sugar come from the same crop, whether sugar cane or sugar beet, they are very similar.
Most brown sugar is a mixture of white sugar and molasses, a syrup made from sugar. This syrup gives a darker color to it and slightly increases its nutritional value. Also, brown sugar contains slightly more calcium, iron, and potassium. However, the content of these minerals in brown sugar is minimal, so it is not a good source of vitamins or minerals.
Disadvantages of Brown Sugar for Diabetes
Well, health experts discourage the consumption of sugar due to its side effects.
Brown sugar side effects can cause various health problems, including
- Obesity
- Excessive abdominal fat
- Risk factors for type 2 diabetes, and further complications
- Increased risk of depression
- Liver disease
- Dementia
- Increased risk for certain cancers
Risks of Overconsumption of Brown Sugar
Brown sugar does not lower the sugar levels, but If you cannot avoid it due to social constraints or unavailability to customize your diet, take it in moderation. The use is normal-like white sugar, but you need to reduce the recommended quantity in your recipe as per white sugar.
All sugars are equally delicious because of their high-calorie content. If your family has diabetes, the high-fat content in the blood and brown (or any) sugar is said to harm your kidneys and pancreas because it increases the level of triglycerides in the blood, which is a risk factor for heart disease and inflammation.
Best Healthier Alternatives of Brown Sugar for Diabetics
You can use better and more natural alternatives of brown sugar to add the desired sweetness to your food:
- Stevia
- Saccharin
- Tagatose (90% sweeter than sucrose)
- Aspartame
- Sucralose
- Acesulfame potassium
- Neotame
Don’t Have Time To Read?
- Due to its molasses content, brown sugar contains certain minerals, especially calcium, potassium, iron, and magnesium. The risk outweighs the benefits.
- Excessive consumption of brown sugar causes risks of depression, liver damage, dementia and excessive abdominal fat.
- Sucralose is one of the best alternatives to brown sugar for a diabetic.
Also Checkout: Are Oats Good for Diabetes
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Brown Sugar Good for Diabetes?
No sugar is good for diabetes. However, it can be beneficial for a diabetic individual to prevent hypoglycemic shock.
Is Brown Sugar a Healthier Alternative?
Sadly, the answer is still no. The nutrient content of brown sugar is relatively low as a source. It is high in calories and is designed to provide your body with carbohydrates that can be used as energy.
What is the Daily Sugar Limit for a Diabetic Person?
No proper measurement limit, but you must try not to consume sugar in addition at all. It is because there is natural sugar in fruits and dairy.
How are Natural Sugars Good for Health?
Since they provide energy to the cells when needed, they are great for providing instant glucose in your blood rather than protein or carbohydrates.
What is the Substitute of Brown Sugar for Diabetics?
You can take jaggery or stevia or choose artificial sweeteners as a substitute for Brown Sugar
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