What is palm sugar

This means that we earn a commission off any purchases that you might make by clicking on some of the product links. What about Gula Melaka? What is Gula Melaka? Asian markets are a good resource for palm sugar, and this sugar can also be ordered through specialty retailers. Many companies sell it in jars or tins, which makes it easy to ship and store, and if you purchase a block or cone, be aware that blocks are often coated in wax for shipping.

Check for wax before shaving off the desired amount of sugar. If you have a recipe that calls for palm sugar and you have trouble finding it, you can try using dark brown sugar mixed with a little molasses. The molasses will intensify the flavor of the sugar and also create the desired level of moisture. Palm Sugar for Diabetes: Manufacturers of palm sugar often claim that it has a low glycemic index which means that consuming palm sugar will not cause a sudden spike in blood sugar levels.

The Philippine Coconut Authority states that the glycemic index of coconut palm sugar is 35, which makes it a low glycemic index food. However, other authoritative sources, including the University of Sydney in Australia, put the glycemic index of coconut palm sugar at 54 which is the same as that of regular sugar. The organization states that people with diabetes can consume coconut palm sugar but they should treat it in the same manner as regular sugar. Natural Unbleached Sweetener : Bone char is made by burning animal bones and it is often used in the refining process to remove organic and inorganic impurities.

The bone char comes in contact with the sugar solution which is a concern to vegans and vegetarians. Additionally, there are other de-colorizing and de-ashing agents that may be used to bleach and refine sugar. The process of refining strips the unrefined sugar of a lot of its nutrients. Palm sugar is unrefined and so it contains a few vitamins and several minerals that would help to ensure that you meet your daily nutritional requirements. Most palm sugars contain potassium, nitrogen, phosphorous, iron and zinc.

These minerals boost brain function and bolster the immune system. Promotes Musculoskeletal Health: Palm sugar, especially coconut palm sugar contains a modest amount of potassium. The average American consumes a whopping 22 teaspoons of sugar a day which means that if an individual switched to coconut palm sugar, he would be able to meet 22 percent of his potassium requirement through palm sugar alone! Get your mag delivered! What is palm sugar?

Where can you buy palm sugar? Is palm sugar healthy? Getty images. Getty Images. Lauren Williamson Lauren Williamson is a digital writer, editor and social media fiend who's a huge fan of tackling new wellness trends, eating her way through foreign countries and getting worked up over politics.