Health Benefits Of Palm Jaggery
The palm jaggery benefits for health are:
1. Rich Source Of Minerals
Palm jaggery is rich in essential minerals. According to some studies, it has 60 times more minerals than white sugar. It is also the storehouse of many vitamins (1).
2. May Restore Healthy Digestion
It may sound strange, but palm jaggery may work as a digestive agent. In some regions of India, people take small servings of it after heavy meals for effective digestion. Anecdotal evidence suggests that it activates the digestive enzymes and may help cleanse the intestinal tracts.
3. Rich In Nutrients
Palm jaggery is rich in iron and magnesium. Regular consumption of iron-rich foods increases hemoglobin level and treats anemia (2). Magnesium, on the other hand, regulates the nervous system (3). High antioxidant content of this natural sweetener helps to protect body cells from damages caused by free radicals. It is equally rich in calcium, potassium, and phosphorus (1).
4. Energy Booster
Palm jaggery is a complex carbohydrate. You can digest it slower than white sugar. It is digested slower and therefore releases out energy when consumed. This means that you can have more energy and be active for hours after eating palm jaggery. [ Read: Benefits Of Organic Jaggery ]
5. May Act As An Antioxidant
Palm jaggery may help you detox and clean up your digestive system and act as an antioxidant. It may help to support the respiratory tract, intestines, lungs, and stomach. It may also help to get rid of toxins from the body, leaving you healthy and fit!
6. May Help Relieve Constipation
Jaggery palm is full of dietary fibers. These fibers help with constipation and indigestion (4). Fiber cleans the system by flushing out unwanted particles like bad cholesterol and toxins. It also stimulates bowel movement.
7. May Help Relieve Many Common Ailments
Palm jaggery was used in ancient times for its medicinal properties. In fact, it was used to treat dry coughs and common colds. Palm jaggery may help to clear the respiratory tract by dissolving the mucus. If a person who is suffering respiratory problems like asthma can take palm jaggery to treat it.
8. May Help Reduce Migraines
Migraine is the most painful of all headaches. Natural medicinal content of palm jaggery helps to reduce this pain. By taking 1 teaspoon of palm jaggery, you may experience relief from migraine.
9. May Help With Weight Loss
This is a startling fact about palm jaggery, which is rich in potassium (1). A higher count of potassium in this raw sweetener reduces water retention and bloating (5), (6). As such, your weight loss regimen is well supported by this sweetener, and of course, for better results, follow a balanced diet and active lifestyle.
10. Seasonal Effects On Body
Palm jaggery may offer relief from both blistering summers and chilling winters. In summer, palmyra jaggery gives you the cooling respite while date palm jaggery keeps you warm during winters. Note: Some of these benefits are based on anecdotal evidence and warrant more research. Can we eat palm jaggery daily? Yes, but in moderation. Anecdotal evidence suggests not to consume more than 20-25g of palm jaggery per day. Is palm jaggery good for people with diabetes? No. Palm jaggery has a high glycemic index and may not be ideal for those with diabetes.
