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is jaggery better than sugar
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Nutrition & Diet
Question #22096
32 days ago
70

is jaggery better than sugar - #22096

Mira

I am really starting to get concerned about my sugar intake lately. Over the last few months, I noticed that every time I have something sweet, I feel really sluggish afterward, and my cravings just keep coming back. I was chatting with a friend who mentioned that maybe I should try jaggery instead. They said jaggery is better than sugar for a bunch of reasons, like having more nutrients and being less processed. But honestly, I wasn't sure if jaggery is really better than sugar or if it's just a trend. Like, I found some fancy recipes that have jaggery in them, but I kinda don’t know how it stacks up health-wise. I’ve also read that jaggery can help with digestion and immunity, so I’m wondering if that's true too? But then I think about the calories, and like, am I just swapping one for another? Is jaggery better than sugar when it comes to my energy levels? Should I be switching totally, or is it just hype? I just want to feel better and not rely on sugar (or jaggery) so much. Any advice?

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Doctors' responses

Switching from sugar to jaggery might seem appealing because many folks believe it’s a healthier option, but it’s crucial to keep a few key points in mind. Jaggery does have slightly more nutrients compared to refined sugar. It contains small amounts of iron, potassium, and calcium, which are stripped away during the processing of white sugar. However, the quantities are not significant enough to provide substantial health benefits. Regarding energy levels, both jaggery and sugar are primarily made up of sucrose and have a similar calorie content, meaning they will have a similar impact on blood sugar and energy levels. Any quick surge in energy will be followed by a crash, much like what you’re experiencing now.

The claims about jaggery improving digestion and immunity are somewhat overemphasized; while it may help slightly due to its trace minerals, these benefits are not well-substantiated by large-scales studies. What you might consider instead is moderating your overall intake of both sugar and jaggery while focusing on a balanced diet rich in whole foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. These foods can help sustain energy and reduce the desire for quick-fix sugar solutions.

Staying active and ensuring adequate hydration can also optimize your energy levels. It might also be worth tracking your consumption habits and identifying patterns or triggers that lead to consuming more sugar or sweets than intended—maybe it’s stress, boredom, or just habit. Reducing added sugars of any kind can lessen those sluggish feelings and prevent craving cycles. You don’t necessarily need a complete switch to jaggery; rather consider it a natural sweetener for occasional use if you like the taste. If concerns persist, consulting a healthcare provider or a nutritionist could provide personalized recommendations responsive to your specific needs and lifestyle.

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