Jaggery Vs Sugar: Which is Healthier?

Jaggery and sugar are both made from sugarcane, but each is processed in a different way that affects the nutrient profile. Jaggery is golden-brown in color, while sugar is white and crystalline. Sugar is used in a variety of dishes because of its white color, which doesn't drastically change the color of most food items.

In contrast to sugar, jaggery offers a far greater number of health benefits. Sugar's white color is because it is processed using charcoal.  Chemicals like Sulphur dioxide, phosphoric acid, calcium hydroxide, color precipitants, and many more are used in the processing of sugar.

Jaggery Or Sugar: Best Chocolate Companion

Some companies switch out sugar with jaggery to make chocolate a healthier treat. Due to its abundance in essential amino acids, phenolics, antioxidants, and minerals like calcium, phosphorus, iron, zinc, and vitamins, jaggery is regarded as a nutraceutical. Antioxidants are high in the cacao used to produce chocolate. Diabetes, heart disease, and other inflammatory disorders are reduced by antioxidants. It has been demonstrated that eating chocolate in moderate improves neuroplasticity. Jaggery-based chocolates can therefore be made by mixing cocoa and jaggery.

Health Benefits of Jaggery: Why Experts Recommend It as a Sugar Substitute

The polyphenols present in jaggery contribute to its bioactivity. A rich source of calcium that is vital for strong bones is found in jaggery. Jaggery is frequently consumed during pregnancy, especially in rural areas, and contains iron that helps in the prevention of anemia. 

According to studies, jaggery also contains anti-allergy characteristics that help manage asthma-related issues and lower stress. About 70–90 mg of magnesium per 100 g of jaggery, which is present in jaggery, serves to protect blood vessels, relax our muscles, and support our nervous system. Jaggery's potassium content helps in controlling heart and blood pressure functions. Jaggery contains small levels of calcium, phosphorous, and zinc, all of which maintain good immunity and health.

Furthermore, by cleaning the blood and averting rheumatic diseases, it helps in the treatment of jaundice. Due to the selenium, it contains, jaggery also serves as an antioxidant and has the power to remove free radicals from our systems.

Jaggery consumption is also proven to improve digestion. It stimulates the body and increases appetite. Jaggery's conversion to acetic acid in the stomach boosts the abdomen's enzymatic activity, which promotes digestion and appetite. Jaggery has also been found to reduce post-meal bloating.

Jaggery has antioxidant properties that sugar does not have. Jaggery significantly decreased the oxidation of red blood cells. Phenolics and other phytochemicals found in jaggery have antioxidant effects. It has also been demonstrated that jaggery has anti-inflammatory, immunity-boosting, and cell-protective properties. As antioxidant, the zinc and selenium included in jaggery slow down the progression of aging. Jaggery's vitamin C content supports a healthy immune system and reduces menstrual pain.

Jaggery and gut health also have a very intimate connection.  Constipation can be relieved by jaggery. Jaggery's anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and mineral content help in maintaining healthy gut cells.