Cane
Category: Sweets State: Syrup
Nutrition Highlights
Serving Size
Calories
57
Nutrient
% Daily Value*
*Daily Values are based on the reference caloric intake of 2,000 calories for adults and children aged 4+ years. Source: Food & Drug Administration
Calorie Sources
Nutrient | Calories kcal (%) |
---|---|
Carbohydrate | 61 (100%) |
Total | 57 (100%) |
Serving: 1 serving [21g]
Composition
Nutrient | Weight g (%) |
---|---|
Carbohydrate | 15 (73.1%) |
Water | 5.5 (26.0%) |
Ash | 0.2 (0.9%) |
Total | 21 (100%) |
Serving: 1 serving [21g]
Benefits
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Provides energy as it is high in natural sugars like sucrose. It is a good source of instant energy
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Contains small amounts of minerals like potassium, calcium, magnesium and phosphorus which are important for overall health
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Rich in antioxidants like polyphenols which may help reduce inflammation and protect cells from damage
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Contains trace amounts of vitamins like riboflavin, niacin and pantothenic acid which play various roles in metabolism
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When consumed in moderation as part of a healthy diet, it can be a source of calories and carbohydrates without many other nutrients
Risks
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High in added sugars which can contribute extra calories and increase risk of weight gain and obesity
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Frequent consumption may increase risk of type 2 diabetes and heart disease
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Contains no nutritional value other than calories from sugar
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May promote tooth decay by feeding bacteria that cause cavities
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Excess sugar intake has been linked to fatty liver disease
Additional Information
Syrup, Cane is a sweetening agent derived from the sugarcane plant and is commonly used as a natural alternative to refined sugar. It offers several nutritional benefits but should be consumed in moderation due to its high sugar content.
One of the primary attributes of cane syrup is its natural composition. Unlike refined sugar, which undergoes extensive processing and loses most of its nutrients, cane syrup retains some of the beneficial components found in sugarcane. These include small amounts of vitamins and minerals such as calcium, iron, potassium, and magnesium. While the quantities of these nutrients are not significant enough to meet daily requirements, they can still contribute to overall nutrient intake when consumed as part of a balanced diet.
Cane syrup also contains antioxidants, which are compounds that help protect the body against free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can cause damage to cells and contribute to the development of chronic diseases. The antioxidants in cane syrup, such as phenolic compounds, may help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.
Another nutritional benefit of cane syrup is its lower glycemic index (GI) compared to refined sugar. The GI is a measure of how quickly a food raises blood sugar levels. Cane syrup has a lower GI due to its higher content of fiber and other compounds that slow down the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream. This can be beneficial for individuals with diabetes or those who want to manage their blood sugar levels more effectively.
However, it is important to note that despite these potential benefits, cane syrup should be consumed in moderation due to its high sugar content. It is primarily composed of sucrose, a disaccharide made up of glucose and fructose. Excessive consumption of added sugars, including cane syrup, has been linked to various health risks.
One of the main risks associated with consuming too much cane syrup is weight gain and increased risk of obesity. High sugar intake can contribute to excess calorie consumption and lead to weight gain over time. Additionally, a diet high in added sugars has been associated with an increased risk of developing chronic conditions such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and certain types of cancer.
Furthermore, cane syrup does not provide any significant nutritional value beyond its sweetening properties. It lacks essential nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and fiber, which are important for overall health and wellbeing. Therefore, it should not be relied upon as a source of nutrients but rather used sparingly as a sweetener in moderation.
In conclusion, syrup, cane offers some nutritional benefits such as antioxidants, a lower glycemic index compared to refined sugar, and small amounts of vitamins and minerals. However, it should be consumed in moderation due to its high sugar content and limited nutritional value. As with any sweetener, it is important to be mindful of overall sugar intake and prioritize a balanced diet rich in whole foods for optimal health.