Sugarcane is a tropical grass cultivated worldwide for its uses in producing cane sugar, refreshing beverages,… Consequently, experts have conducted research to analyze the nutritional content of sugarcane. To determine whether consuming sugarcane is beneficial for health or if it contributes to weight gain, please follow the article below.
1. Nutritional information of sugarcane
When consuming sugarcane, we often cut it into bite-sized pieces or divide the stalk into convenient segments for holding, or it can be peeled and pressed into juice. Therefore, analyses have compiled the nutritional content of sugarcane based on multiple results with the same weight. To obtain more accurate results, researchers selected sugarcane juice for analysis. One serving of approximately 28 grams of sugarcane juice contains:
- Calories: 113.43 kcal
- Protein: 0.2 grams
- Fat: 0.66 grams
- Carbohydrates: 25.4 grams
Additionally, consuming sugarcane provides the body with several nutrients, such as iron, magnesium, Vitamin B1 and Riboflavin.
2. Health benefits of consuming sugarcane
Sugarcane and its nutritional components can provide several benefits when consumed in moderation. Whether used directly or indirectly through sugarcane-derived products, you can gain the following advantages:
- Reduces urinary tract issues
- Increases antioxidants
- Provides benefits for pregnant or breastfeeding women
- Beneficial for diabetic patients
Due to the preference for sweeteners, sugarcane is recommended as an alternative. Sugarcane provides a natural sweetness, which is healthier than using refined sugars. Below are some specific benefits of sugarcane:
- Diuretic benefits
Sugarcane has diuretic properties that help the body eliminate excess water and salts, reducing the workload on the kidneys. As a result, the kidneys are less likely to become overburdened and remain healthy. Studies have shown that sugarcane juice and coconut water are cooling beverages. Consuming these drinks can help cool down the body and alleviate the burning sensation caused by urinary tract infections.
- Disease prevention
Sugarcane contains antioxidants that the body needs to build and maintain a healthy immune system. These antioxidants also help prevent the damage caused by free radicals to the body. By blocking the damage from free radical molecules, sugarcane helps reduce issues such as diabetes, malaria (1), myocardial infarction (heart attack), and skin cancer.
- Enhancing metabolism and alleviating morning sickness in pregnant women
If you are concerned about whether eating sugarcane causes weight gain, it is true that sugar is often the culprit behind obesity. However, if consumed in moderation, sugarcane supports the metabolism of amino acids and does not cause excessive weight gain in pregnant women. Pregnant women may experience less nausea and fatigue when consuming sugarcane juice with ginger. This combination can improve appetite and enhance immune health throughout pregnancy.
Benefits for diabetic patients
Diabetic patients need to limit their sugar intake to lower their blood glucose levels, which are often dangerously high. Although sugarcane can raise blood sugar levels, its impact is less severe compared to refined sugars. Notably, molasses, a concentrated byproduct of sugarcane, has a mild sweetness and provides significant nutritional value. In contrast to sugarcane, molasses helps lower blood sugar levels and inhibits insulin production. Furthermore, consuming sugarcane products can help reduce high blood pressure.
3. Risks of consuming sugarcane you need to know
In addition to the benefits mentioned above, some people still question whether consuming sugarcane is truly beneficial. Generally, negative effects only occur when the body receives an excessive amount, leading to an accumulation of substances that cannot be metabolized. Here are some precautions to help you avoid the risks associated with consuming sugarcane or sugarcane-derived products:
- Cardiovascular (heart and blood vessels) disease patients
According to several scientific studies, a diet high in sugar can increase the risk of mortality for patients with a history of heart disease or current cardiovascular conditions. Some statistics indicate that consuming about 20% of calories from sugar raises the risk of death by 38% compared to those who consume around 8%.
- Individuals with high blood pressure
A diet high in sugar can affect the function of sugar molecules and pose significant risks to your health. Issues such as high blood pressure, diabetes, elevated cholesterol levels, or obesity,… are often caused by excessive sugar consumption. Although sugarcane offers nutritional benefits and is healthier than refined sugars, it should still be consumed in moderation to avoid unwanted side effects.
I hope the above insights on whether consuming sugarcane is beneficial have answered your question. It is important to consider a diet that best suits your health needs.
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Reference source: webmd.com
