Jaggery, or gud (an Indian name), is a sweetener prepared from sugarcane juice. The ancient Indian system of Ayurveda calls it medicinal sugar. Jaggery is consumed in India, either directly or indirectly, in preparing sweet dishes such as gajak, chikki, payasam, etc. Unlike refined sugar, jaggery contains natural minerals, vitamins, iron, potassium and other substances not in refined sugar. Jaggery is, therefore, considered a healthy sugar substitute. Let’s explore the benefits of jaggery in this blog.
What are the Health Benefits of Jaggery?
Jaggery is a type of unrefined sugar. Jaggery may help with conditions like cough, cold, anaemia and asthma if regularly taken. Below are a few of the potential benefits of jaggery that are discussed below:
- Powerful Antioxidant: Excess free radicals can damage our cells and make us sick. Jaggery contains a wealth of antioxidants, which may help fight free radicals.
- Liver Detoxification: Have jaggery daily; it may help get rid of toxins from the liver and body.
- Aids in the Digestive Process: Jaggery can prevent bowel problems like constipation and indigestion by activating the digestive organs.
- Provides a Source of Energy: Jaggery comprises a complex chain of sucrose and takes more time to digest than refined sugar. This means energy is released slowly and for a long-sustained period.
- Provide Relief for Asthma and Allergies: Jaggery is an excellent source of iron, and regular consumption of it improves haemoglobin levels. By improving haemoglobin levels, breathing and oxygen-carrying capacity are improved, relieving people with allergic asthma. The anti-allergic effect of jaggery also comes from selenium.
- Relieves Menstrual Pain: Jaggery is rich in folate and iron, which promote blood circulation during menstruation to alleviate pain.
- Prevents Anaemia: Jaggery is rich in iron and is beneficial to people with iron-deficiency anaemia.
- Improves Skin Health: Jaggery removes toxins from the blood, purifying the blood. This results in clear and healthy skin without acne or other skin infections.
- Improves Heart Health: Jaggery contains a lot of potassium, which is important for regulating blood pressure and heart function and can help to prevent heart diseases. Magnesium present in jaggery protects blood vessels.