Sweetness is something most of us love, and sugar is the most common way we add it to our food and drinks. But in recent years, many people have been switching to jaggery, thinking it is a healthier option. So, is jaggery really better than sugar? Let’s understand the differences.
How They Are Made
- Sugar is made by refining sugarcane juice. During this process, all the natural nutrients are removed, leaving only plain white crystals.
- Jaggery, on the other hand, is made by boiling sugarcane juice until it thickens. It is not heavily refined, so it keeps some natural minerals.
Nutritional Value
- Sugar has only empty calories. It gives instant energy but no vitamins or minerals.
- Jaggery contains small amounts of iron, magnesium, potassium, and antioxidants. These can help improve blood levels, digestion, and immunity if taken in moderation.
Effect on Health
- Sugar can quickly raise blood sugar levels, which is harmful if consumed in large amounts. Regular use is linked to diabetes, obesity, and heart problems.
- Jaggery is often called a healthier alternative because it retains nutrients. It is believed to help with digestion, prevent anemia, and detoxify the body. However, it still contains a high amount of sugar, so overeating can cause weight gain and health issues similar to sugar.
Which is Better?
If you compare both, jaggery is a slightly better option than sugar because it has some minerals and is less processed. But that doesn’t mean you can eat unlimited jaggery. Both sugar and jaggery are high in calories, so they should be consumed in moderation.
Final Thoughts
Sugar gives you only sweetness, while jaggery provides sweetness with a touch of nutrition. If you want to make a healthier choice, jaggery is better. But the best way to stay healthy is to cut down on both and look for other natural sweeteners like honey or stevia.
