In Indian households, white sugar or refined sugar, commonly known as “sugar,” is a staple ingredient used in everyday beverages such as chai and coffee, as well as desserts like halwa and kheer. However, consuming excessive amounts of added sugar can lead to several health problems such as high blood pressure, inflammation, weight gain, diabetes, and fatty liver disease. Due to its industrial preparation process, sugar loses most of its nutritional value.
Alternatively, jaggery is made by boiling sugarcane syrup and is a good source of several essential vitamins and minerals such as calcium, magnesium, potassium, and phosphorus. Compared to refined sugar, which contains only empty calories, jaggery is a more nutritious option. However, jaggery is still a form of sugar and should be consumed in moderation since it contains a high number of calories.
Many people believe that jaggery can be a perfect replacement for sugar in all recipes. However, according to nutritionists, it is not as simple as just swapping the ingredients. It is crucial to choose between using jaggery or sugar depending on the current season and the type of recipe being prepared, taking into account other ingredients that will be combined with the sweet ingredient.
Replacing sugar with jaggery may be a better option than consuming processed sugar, as jaggery is a more natural and unrefined sweetener. Jaggery is made by boiling sugar cane juice or palm sap, and it retains some of the vitamins and minerals that are lost during the refining process of sugar. It also has a lower glycemic index than sugar, meaning it raises blood sugar levels at a slower rate and may be a better option for people with diabetes.
However, it is important to keep in mind that jaggery is still a sweetener and should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. It is also important to note that jaggery is still high in calories and can contribute to weight gain if consumed in excess. Additionally, some varieties of jaggery may contain impurities or additives, so it is important to choose a good quality product.
Overall, while jaggery may be a better option than processed sugar, it is still a sweetener and should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.