Jaggery, also known
as gur and sukari nguru is a popular
traditional sweetener is famous throughout SoutheastAsia and Africa. It is a form of unrefined sugar made by boiling raw, concentrated
sugarcane juice until it solidifies and is usually dark yellow or brown in
color. Jaggery has many health benefits and is widely used medicinally.
Benefits of jaggery
Natural and
nutrient-rich
Jaggery is natural and
less processed making it a better option compared to processed sweeteners. The
traditional preparation method preserves the minerals and phytochemicals in it and
does not bring in external compounds or chemical additives. It is an excellent
source of iron and contains calcium, magnesium, potassium, and phosphorus.
Prevents anemia
and boosts hemoglobin
Iron plays a vital
function in the body’s functioning and while it is found in all human cells, it
is mostly found in red blood cells. The chief function of iron is to form
hemoglobin whose main purpose is to transport oxygen in the blood.
Iron deficiency can
lead to anemia which makes it difficult to focus, can cause fatigue and muscle
weakness. Replacing refined sugar with jaggery increases your iron intake
reducing your chances of developing anemia and is useful in treating anemia.
Rich in
antioxidants
Jaggery is a good
source of antioxidants. Antioxidants protect cells from damage and in so doing
boost resistance against infections, strengthening immunity. Antioxidants lower
the risk of certain diseases including cancer. They also reduce the signs of
aging, lower the risk of dementia and lower the risk of age-related vision
loss also known as macular degeneration.
Improves appetite
and digestion
Jaggery has a
digestive stimulant property that helps improve digestion and appetite. It
converts into acetic acid in the stomach which can help in rectifying enzymatic
activity, digestion, and appetite.
In India, it is a
common practice to take a few grams of jaggery after a heavy meal to facilitate
digestion. It may also aid in relieving constipation. It facilitates bowel
movement, works as a detox, and helps cleanse the colon naturally.
Boosts energy,
reduces fatigue, and improves muscle endurance
Jaggery provides
instant energy to the body. Low iron can reduce energy levels causing fatigue
which is especially common in women during their reproductive years. A
deficiency manifests as more than the normal level of sleepiness, including
tiredness that interferes with a person’s daily routine and activities feeling
less exciting or enjoyable for several weeks or longer.
The role played by
iron in boosting oxygen transportation and circulation increases muscle
endurance. Low iron makes muscle fatigue faster. In Ayurveda, jaggery is used
to treat general debility and physical weakness.
Beneficial for
women
Iron is critical in
the formation of hemoglobin which is important for restoring blood when people
lose it. Women lose blood every month during their menstrual cycles increasing
their likelihood of developing anemia.
Iron is regularly
prescribed as a supplement to women for this very reason. It may also be
a natural way to relieve menstrual cramps. It is also
beneficial in managing PMS symptoms most especially mood swings. Eating small
amounts of jaggery helps release endorphins that help the body relax.