Molasses is so sweet. Some individuals prefer it to sugar. Molasses are used in different dishes to sweeten them, and it has proved to be helpful health-wise.
If given a chance, which one would you choose, molasses or sugar? Hold on to your answer, and let’s see if by the end of the article, you’d have changed your mind. Molasses exist in different forms. Each type has its own use, nutrition facts, and benefits. So, let’s be straightforward, how is blackstrap molasses beneficial?
Do you know what molasses is?
Sugarcane is juicy and fully loaded with various antioxidants, which help to maintain a well-functioningimmune system. These antioxidants helpreduce free radicals, whichare causesof most diseases. Sugarcane is a ‘mother’of important by-products such as molasses. Molasses is a thick liquid often used as a sweetener. It’s obtained from crushed sugar beet or sugar cane.
Molasses makers crush sugar cane to obtain itsjuicewhich is then boiled to form sugar crystals. Once these crystals are removed, the remaining substance is called molasses.
Is blackstrap the only molasses?
No, blackstrap is not the only existing type of molasses. They are many. Molasses are grouped according to the number of times the sugar is extracted and its syrup boiled.The substance extracted for the first time is light, the second stage is dark, and blackstrap falls at the third stage. Blackstrap is the thickest and contains the most concentrated molasses, making it the darkest and healthiest version of molasses. While other types are sweet, blackstrap’s flavor is bittersweet. For that reason, it’s mostly an ingredient for savory recipes. Blackstrap is also the mostnutritiousbecause it has allthe essential minerals and vitaminswhich may not be present in other types of molasses.
What’s the nutritional value of blackstrap molasses?
Substituting refined sugar with blackstrap molasses willdo some greatness in your body. Blackstrap molasses containssignificant amounts of iron, calcium, manganese, vitamin B6, magnesium, and potassium. Additionally, it’s low in glycemic index than other sweetener options. So, you can be sure it’ll not raise your blood sugar that much. It can be a great alternative for individuals aiming to maintain the right blood sugar levels.
With only one tablespoon of blackstrap molasses, you’ll get the following;
- 60 calories
- 1 gram of protein
- 0-gramfat
- 10 grams of sugar
- 14 grams of carbohydrates
What are the benefits of blackstrap molasses?
Improves bone’s functioning-it’ll help your bones get strong and remain healthy. Its richness in calcium enables quick healing and improves connective tissues and overall bone health.
Helps with strong hair-blackstrap molasses contain antioxidants like selenium, zinc, and manganese, useful for soft hair. More so, it’ll minimize hair loss and delay your graying hair.
Anemia prevention-iron present in blackstrap molasses promotes the production of red blood cells and hemoglobin, thus protecting you from anemia.
Relieves arthritis Symptoms-Blackstrap is anti-inflammatory.It helps to reduce discomfort and other symptoms of arthritis. It eases swelling, pain, and joint inflammation.
Boosts brain functioning-Long term stress andfatigue can cause the brain’s performance to decline. Blackstrap contains B vitamins, magnesium, and calcium, which you need forproper cognitive abilities. These nutrients help to fight off anxiety, stress, and fatigue. Therefore, it boosts focus, mood, and brain function.
Relieves menstrual pain-menstrual cramps andPMS are battles most women deal with in their lives. Consuming blackstrap molasses will help manage discomfort during menstruation because of its high calcium, magnesium, and iron levels.
Gives you healthy skin-you want‘forever young’ skin? Make blackstrap molasses a regular ingredient in your meals. It’s great for softening and exfoliating skin. Its lactic acid can treat eczema, acne, and many other skin issues. Using it is easy. Wet your face and gently pat blackstrap molasses on your skin. After about five minutes, use a warm wet cloth to remove it.
Aids digestion and a good remedy for constipation-you’ll only need onetablespoon of molasses to stimulate your digestion. Consume it anytime you experience discomfort in your stomach. It’ll also help to soften stool and prevent constipation.
Boosts energy-anytime you feel sluggish and need to reenergize, look for blackstrap to boost your energy. One spoonful is enough.
Improves your sleep pattern-sleep difficulties arecaused by many factors like stress, anxiousness, and fatigue. Introducing blackstrap molasses in your bedtime routine will help you sleep better and for longer hours. Its calcium and magnesium content assists the body in relaxing and eliminating restlessness. You can mix it with warm milk to make it more delicious.
Can blackstrap molasses go bad?
An opened blackstrap molasses can remain fresh for about a year as long as it’s closed tightly after each use. The secret to prolonging its shelf life is keeping the lid tightly sealed when not used. If you notice any off-taste, smell, or see any mold, discard it. When it comes to molasses, refrigeration is not a necessity.Ensure you buy blackstrap molasses that is 100% organic if you want to gain maximum health benefits because it’ll likely stay for a longer timeif itsingredients are pure.
What’s the risk of using blackstrap molasses?
Even though it’s low in sugar and fully loaded with more nutrients than other sweeteners, blackstrap molasses can be unhealthy if overconsumed. It can increaseyour blood sugar levels. Ensure your consumption is moderate when using it, especially for individualswith diabetes.
What’s the healthier option of blackstrap molasses?
If you feel insecure about blackstrap molasses, you can opt for stevia as a healthier alternative. It’s plant-basedand a great substitution for real sugar. It’s highly recommended to prediabetes andindividuals with diabetes. Another option is fruits like berries, melons, and bananas.
Conclusion
We’ll leave you with a few things to remember. The most important point is that blackstrap is beneficial to the body. Among all the types of molasses, it’s the healthiest. The only risk blackstrap molasses may have isthat it can spike your blood sugar levels. However, that will only happen if you consume it irresponsibly. You can now go and buy your blackstrap molasses because it’ll make your meals sweater andyour health better!
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