Why Maple Syrup? Health and Environmental Benefits of Maple Syrup

Of course maple syrup is delicious, but that's just the start of it. Maple syrup is also a healthier choice as a sweetener.

As a purely natural product, maple syrup contains a surprising number of health benefits including: 

• Antioxidants - up to 24 different antioxidant compounds are found in maple syrup. Antioxidants are beneficial for reducing free radical damage that can cause inflammation and contribute to the formation of various chronic diseases such as cancers.

• Minerals - maple syrup contains zinc, manganese, potassium and calcium. These are important minerals for your body. In addition, potassium and calcium are important electrolytes, and maple syrup is a great source for replenishing these after aerobic activity. 

• Lower Glycemic Index - the sugars in maple syrup are metabolized more slowly by our bodies resulting in less of a spike in blood sugar. 

Of course, maple syrup is still a sugar and should be consumed in moderation.

In addition, maple syrup is a more environmentally-friendly choice. The production of maple syrup helps to sustain forests and all the environmental and ecological benefits they provide. Other sugars are produced in fields - of beets, corn, or sugarcane - in what used to be forests or grasslands and need fertilization and pesticides to be grown. The processing of refined sugar also requires additional chemicals and removes essentially all nutrients and beneficial compounds, resulting in empty calories.

So, you can feel good while you enjoy delicious Tapped Maple Syrup!

Sources:

WebMD: https://www.webmd.com/diet/maple-syrup-good-for-you

Maine Maple Syrup Producers Association: https://mainemapleproducers.com/nutrition-the-9-health-benefits-of-maple-syrup/