While jaggery does contain sugar, it is less harmful to diabetics than white sugar. It contains iron, phosphates, and calcium, and does not trigger the same response in the body as white sugar. Additionally, it has lower GI than white sugar and is richer in moisture.
Related: We just published the updated Jaggery price list in India on Priceo.
Although there are several advantages to jaggery for diabetics, there are a number of drawbacks. Although refined sugar is strictly prohibited, palm jaggery and regular gur are tolerated in moderate amounts. Jaggery contains inulin, which helps regulate blood sugar levels and improve gut flora, as well as aiding in digestion.
Sugar raises blood sugar levels in diabetics, which can lead to diabetes. It is also associated with metabolic syndrome, peripheral arterial disease, neuropathies, heart disease, and cancer. Consuming too much sugar may lead to hyperglycemia and harm organs, including the eyes and fine blood vessels.
Jaggery is an excellent source of carbohydrates and is a natural product. Jaggery is a form of sugarcane, but is more unrefined than refined sugar. It is a brown mass of sucrose that gets its color from the other elements in the cane. Jaggery is commonly produced in India, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka.
Another benefit of jaggery is its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The sugar in jaggery helps fight inflammation and prevents free radical damage. It also helps regulate the digestive system and normalizes menstrual cycles. Jaggery also has high levels of iron and manganese, which help in easing menstrual cramps.
One of the biggest concerns about jaggery for diabetics is its high glycemic index, which means it can quickly increase blood glucose. If you have diabetes, you should limit your jaggery intake to only occasional sweet cravings. There are plenty of benefits to jaggery, but it is important to know the facts before consuming it.
In addition to being safe for diabetics, jaggery can also help you cut down on sugar. Diabetics should not consume highly processed corn or wheat flakes. These have high glycemic indexes and can cause a spike in blood glucose levels post meal. But less processed corn or wheat flakes should be considered healthy alternatives for diabetics.
Another way to consume jaggery is in cooking. It is rich in fiber, which helps the digestive system work better. It also prevents free radical damage to cells. It can lower the risk of heart disease and cardiovascular disease. And since jaggery is low in sodium, it can help control blood sugar levels while maintaining a feeling of fullness.
Jaggery is an excellent diabetic food, which has been used in India for centuries. However, people with diabetes should consult their doctors for advice.