Type 2 Diabetes – Is Coconut Palm Sugar Suitable for Diabetics?

Diabetics are always looking for safe and tasty alternatives to traditional table sugar. One alternative many diabetics often overlook or might not even be aware of, is coconut palm sugar. Not only is it safer to use than traditional table sugar, but it is also better for people with Type 2 diabetes.

Coconut palm sugar is derived from the nectar of coconut trees. The sugar is extracted by tapping the blossoms on the palm tree, which in turn kills off the blossoms so they do not produce coconuts. The sap that is extracted is first concentrated into a syrup and then sent through an evaporation process to remove moisture, leaving behind only the sugar.

Coconut palm sugar can be found in three different forms: small compressed cakes, a thick paste texture, and a small granulated variety which has the appearance and consistency of brown sugar.

Coconut palm sugar can be used almost identically to table sugar. It has a slightly different taste than traditional white sugar in that it carries a small hint of butterscotch and caramel. When using coconut palm sugar in the place of table sugar, you can safely reduce the amount needed without sacrificing taste.

One of the amazing features of this form of sugar is it scores an impressive low rating of just 35 on the glycemic index scale. This means although the sugar is naturally sweet, it does not quickly turn into sugar once it is consumed.

This sugar is also loaded with health benefits. It has been shown to provide assistance in maintaining healthy blood sugar levels. Research shows it not only helps people diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes to keep their blood sugar under control but it also helps to lower the risk of people becoming Type 2 diabetic.

Studies have also revealed coconut palm sugar is one of the foods which can help to lower the risk of certain types of cancer, especially breast cancer.

But there is even more. This sugar is loaded with many essential vitamins and minerals. When compared to both processed white sugar and brown sugar, coconut palm sugar is packed full of more of these components: iron, potassium, zinc, phosphorus, nitrogen, magnesium and, more importantly, less sodium. What does that mean?

• zinc… promotes brain function and clarity
• iron… vital for healthy blood: also promotes a strong, healthy immune system
• low sodium and high magnesium… promotes a healthy nervous system
• nitrogen and potassium… are essential for maintaining a healthy heart and cardiovascular system
• phosphorus… enhances the health of the cells and promotes proper kidney function