Jaggery is a traditional natural sweetener used in many Indian cuisines. Since ancient times, jaggery has been used not only in the kitchen but also in Ayurvedic medicines. Jaggery is considered a healthy alternative to refined sugar. But the real question is, is jaggery a good sugar substitute? Why do we think it's more natural than refined sugar? Let us investigate this claim, decode the nutritional value of jaggery, and compare it with sugar.
Dr. Shashikant Nigam, Consultant, Apollo Hospital, Ahmedabad, explains that jaggery is a form of diet material made from sugarcane. It contains about 65-70 percent sucrose, while white sugar contains 99.5% sucrose. Dr. Nigam says that jaggery has less sucrose as compared to white sugar, hence the glucose level increases slowly after its consumption. The effect of jaggery on blood sugar levels may not be the same as that of refined sugar, but it is not considered good for diabetics due to an important factor called the glycemic index.
Comparison of Coconut Jaggery and Table Sugar
A recent study comparing the effects of coconut jaggery and table sugar on blood sugar found similar patterns. Although the protein content of jaggery was much higher than that of cane sugar. The study did not recommend coconut jaggery as a better alternative to sugar for diabetics.
Then what is it that makes jaggery so popular?
Jaggery is a part of many Indian traditional dishes. Jaggery has always been preferred in our homes due to the high production of sugarcane and its high nutritional content. Dr. Nigam explains that jaggery is a good source of several vitamins and minerals, especially iron and vitamin C. Jaggery rich in Vitamin B12 is also easily available in the market.
