15 Sugarcane Benefits And Nutritional Value

Sugarcane, a tall perennial grass native to tropical regions, is widely cultivated for its juice, from which sugar is processed.

However, sugarcane juice itself is a refreshing, nutritious beverage enjoyed around the world. Beyond its sweet taste, sugarcane juice offers numerous health benefits, making it a valuable addition to a healthy diet.

This article explores the nutritional value of sugarcane and delves into 15 remarkable benefits of sugarcane drinks.

Benefits of Sugarcane

1. Energy Booster

One of the most well-known benefits of sugarcane is its ability to provide an instant energy boost. The natural sugars in sugarcane juice are easily absorbed by the body, quickly replenishing energy levels and revitalizing the body.

This makes it an excellent choice for athletes or individuals needing a quick energy pick-me-up.

2. Diuretic in Nature

Sugarcane juice is a natural diuretic, which means it helps to promote the production of urine. This property is beneficial for maintaining kidney health, preventing urinary tract infections, and ensuring the proper functioning of the kidneys by flushing out toxins from the body.

3. Improves Digestion

Rich in dietary fiber, sugarcane aids in digestive health. The fiber helps to regulate bowel movements, preventing constipation and promoting a healthy digestive tract.

Additionally, the juice of sugarcane is known to balance the pH levels in the stomach, aiding in the prevention of stomach infections and digestive disorders.

4. Graceful Aging

The antioxidants in sugarcane juice, such as flavonoids and phenolic compounds, play a crucial role in combating oxidative stress. This helps to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and other signs of aging.

Consuming sugarcane juice regularly can contribute to healthier, more youthful skin.

5. Immunity Booster

Sugarcane juice is rich in essential nutrients like vitamins A, C, and B-complex, along with antioxidants and flavonoids. These compounds help to strengthen the immune system, making the body more resilient against infections and diseases.

Regular consumption can help in warding off colds, flu, and other common illnesses.

6. Helpful in Pregnancy

Pregnant women can benefit from sugarcane juice due to its high nutrient content. It provides essential vitamins and minerals that support the health of both the mother and the developing baby.

Additionally, it can help alleviate symptoms of morning sickness and provide a natural source of energy.

7. May Help During Fever

Sugarcane juice is often recommended during fever as it helps to maintain hydration and provides essential nutrients that the body needs to recover. Its diuretic property helps in flushing out toxins and reducing fever.

Moreover, the easily digestible sugars provide an instant energy boost to the body.

8. Maintains Oral Health

Chewing on sugarcane sticks is a traditional practice that can improve oral health. The fibrous texture of the cane helps to clean teeth, massage gums, and remove plaque. Additionally, the juice has natural antibacterial properties that can help prevent tooth decay and bad breath.

9. Supports Liver Health

Sugarcane juice is known to be a natural remedy for liver-related ailments. It is often recommended for individuals suffering from jaundice as it helps to maintain electrolyte balance and supports liver function.

The antioxidants in sugarcane juice also help protect the liver from infections and maintain its overall health.

10. Enhances Skin Health

The glycolic acid in sugarcane juice promotes skin health by exfoliating the skin and maintaining its moisture balance. It can help to clear acne, prevent dryness, and enhance the skin’s natural glow.

Regular consumption and topical application of sugarcane juice can lead to healthier and more radiant skin.

11. Promotes Weight Loss

Despite its sweetness, sugarcane juice can be a part of a weight loss diet. It is low in calories and contains natural sugars that are less likely to be stored as fat compared to refined sugars.

Additionally, its fiber content aids in digestion and helps to keep you feeling full for longer, reducing the overall calorie intake.

12. Regulates Blood Sugar Levels

Contrary to popular belief, sugarcane juice can be beneficial for diabetics when consumed in moderation. The natural sugars in sugarcane have a low glycemic index, which helps in maintaining steady blood glucose levels.

However, it is always advisable for diabetics to consult with their healthcare provider before adding sugarcane juice to their diet.

13. Prevents Cancer

The high concentration of antioxidants, flavonoids, and phenolic compounds in sugarcane juice makes it an effective agent in fighting cancer. These compounds help in reducing the oxidative stress and inflammation that can lead to cancer.

Studies suggest that sugarcane juice can be particularly effective in preventing breast and prostate cancer.

14. Strengthens Nails

Rich in essential nutrients like folic acid and vitamin B12, sugarcane juice can contribute to stronger and healthier nails. Regular consumption helps in preventing nail brittleness and promotes better nail growth.

15. Reduces Throat Infections

The anti-inflammatory properties of sugarcane juice make it effective in soothing throat infections. It can help reduce the pain and discomfort associated with sore throats and colds. Additionally, its natural antibacterial properties aid in fighting off the infection-causing bacteria.

Nutritional Value of Sugarcane

Sugarcane is a rich source of essential nutrients that contribute to its numerous health benefits. Here’s a detailed look at its nutritional profile:

Carbohydrates

Sugarcane is predominantly composed of carbohydrates, primarily in the form of sucrose. These natural sugars provide a quick source of energy. A 100-gram serving of sugarcane juice contains approximately 13 grams of carbohydrates.

Vitamins

• Vitamin C: Sugarcane juice is a good source of vitamin C, an antioxidant that boosts the immune system, promotes healthy skin, and aids in the absorption of iron from plant-based foods.
• Vitamin A: Essential for vision, immune function, and skin health, vitamin A is also found in sugarcane juice.
• B-Complex Vitamins: These include vitamins B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B5 (pantothenic acid), B6 (pyridoxine), and B9 (folate). They play crucial roles in energy metabolism, brain function, and red blood cell formation.

Minerals

• Calcium: Important for bone and teeth health, muscle function, and nerve signaling.
• Potassium: Regulates fluid balance, muscle contractions, and nerve signals. It is also crucial for maintaining healthy blood pressure levels.
• Magnesium: Vital for muscle and nerve function, blood sugar control, and bone health.
• Iron: Essential for the formation of hemoglobin and oxygen transport in the blood.
• Phosphorus: Supports the formation of bones and teeth, and plays a role in the body’s utilization of carbohydrates and fats.

Antioxidants

Sugarcane juice is rich in antioxidants like flavonoids and phenolic compounds. These help to neutralize free radicals, reduce inflammation, and protect against chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease.

Fiber

Although the juice contains less fiber than the raw stalk, sugarcane still provides dietary fiber which aids in digestion and helps to prevent constipation.

Protein

Sugarcane contains small amounts of protein, which are essential for muscle repair, enzyme function, and overall cellular health.

The Risks When Eating Sugarcane You Need to Know

While sugarcane offers a plethora of health benefits, it is important to be aware of the potential risks associated with its consumption. Here are some of the risks when eating sugarcane that you should be aware of:

1. High Sugar Content

Sugarcane is naturally high in sugar, which can be a concern for individuals with diabetes or those at risk of developing diabetes. Excessive consumption of sugarcane juice can lead to spikes in blood sugar levels, which can be harmful. It is important to consume sugarcane in moderation and monitor blood sugar levels if you have any concerns.

2. Caloric Intake

Despite being low in calories compared to processed sugars, sugarcane juice can still contribute to overall caloric intake. Consuming large quantities can lead to weight gain, especially if it is not balanced with physical activity. Portion control is essential to avoid excessive calorie consumption.

3. Dental Health Issues

While chewing sugarcane can improve oral health, the high sugar content can also contribute to tooth decay and cavities if proper dental hygiene is not maintained. It is important to brush and floss regularly to prevent sugar from accumulating on teeth and causing damage.

4. Risk of Infections

Raw sugarcane can sometimes be contaminated with harmful bacteria or parasites if not properly cleaned. Consuming unclean sugarcane can lead to gastrointestinal infections and other health issues. It is important to ensure that sugarcane is thoroughly washed before consumption.

5. Allergic Reactions

Although rare, some individuals may experience allergic reactions to sugarcane. Symptoms can include itching, swelling, and difficulty breathing. If you experience any adverse reactions after consuming sugarcane, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.