Coconut or Coconut palm sugar is actually sap from the coconut palm tree flower buds. It has been used for hundreds of years in the Philippines, Thailand and Indonesia as a natural form of sugar. Coconut tree blossoms are ‘tapped’ and sap is gathered then cooked over low heat to reduce the water content. This form of minimal processing does not destroy the healthy vitamins and minerals that occur in coconut sugar.

Health benefits of Coconut Sugar

• Safe to use. This sweetener is a natural healthy product when used in moderation. It is safe alternative to white sugar for those who can use that type of sugar. Coconut sugar has 15 calories and 4 grams of carbohydrates per teaspoon.
• Low Glycemic index. Coconut sugar is rated at 35 on the glycemic index making it diabetic friendly. White sugar is rated around 60. A lower glycemic level means that this sugar will take longer to be absorbed by your body and not spike blood sugar levels.
• Packed full of nutrients. Coconut sugar contains potassium, iron, magnesium, and zinc. All of which are necessary for healthy body function. In addition to these minerals this sugar also has B Vitamins, Essential Amino Acids and Vitamin C. White refined sugar has little to no nutritional value.
• Contains fibre. This sugar contains inulin, a naturally occurring fibre that keeps your digestive tract healthy and clean.
• Environmentally friendly and sustainable. The sap provided from the coconut palm flower buds can be harvested for the entire life of the tree. With proper management coconut trees can produce both sap and coconuts without harming the tree. The production of coconut sugar provides jobs for those who reside in areas that experience poverty and its production does not destroy or pollute the environment.

How to use Coconut Sugar

This mild tasting brown to tan coloured sugar can be used in the same manner as refined white sugar and is measured 1.1 in equal parts to sugar. It can be used in beverages, baked goods, and cooked foods or in any other way that white sugar would be used. 'Ask a Naturopath or Nutritionist' at the Mr Vitamins store if coconut sugar is the right choice for you. This sugar mainly consists of sucrose but does contain some fructose.