Posts Tagged ‘nutrients’

Is “natural” sugar better for you than added sugar?

Sunday, July 25th, 2010

–from Consumer Reports Health Blog

If you mean the sugar that occurs naturally in fruits, dairy products, and other foods, then yes. That’s not because it’s inherently healthier but simply because it comes with all the vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients those foods contain.

But brown or raw sugar is just as nutritionally bereft—and has just as many calories—as white sugar or high-fructose corn syrup. “Organic” sugar is made from sugar cane or beets that are grown without chemical fertilizers or synthetic pesticides, which probably poses less of a threat to the environment. But it’s doubtful if that translates directly into significant health benefits. Honey and maple syrup may taste great but they contain few if any nutrients. Blackstrap molasses does have some calcium and iron, but also has a strong, distinctive flavor.

So choose your sugar based on flavor, texture, recipe, and perhaps your politics. But don’t expect the decision to have much impact on your health.