13 Amazing Health Benefits of sugarcane

Sugar cane is a tall plant of two to six feet; it is a jointed, fibrous stalk that stores carbohydrates. Sugarcane belongs to the grass family. About 80% of the world's sugar comes from countries Brazil, India, China, and the USA. Sugarcane makes the maximum amount of sugar to date. You can chew on sugarcane or drink sugarcane juice. The health benefits of sugarcane are remarkable, from treating urinary tract issues, to boosting antioxidant levels and benefiting pregnant women and diabetic patients. A calm, chilled sugarcane juice on a hot summer day is like heaven's delight. This juice is not just relishing but provides many other health benefits. Let's explore them.

13 Surprising Benefits of Sugarcane

There is a never-ending list of sugarcane benefits as it is rich in iron, calcium, vitamin C, and antioxidants. Following are the few nutritionist-proven benefits of consuming sugarcane:-

1. Boost Energy levels

Sugarcane has a lot of sucrose. This higher sucrose concentration makes it ideal for hydrating your body and reducing fatigue. It acts as a powerhouse of energy, normalizes the release of glucose, and hydrates the body to regain the water lost due to higher heat. Sugarcane juice has many carbs, proteins, and fiber that help moisturize the body. The energy gained after consuming sugarcane juice is much more effective than a charged drink.

2. Strengthen the liver

Sugarcane is one of the most common remedies in Ayurveda. Jaundice impacts the liver, and sugarcane juice can strengthen your liver. Sugarcane has a lot of antioxidants that can help combat liver infections. In addition, jaundice elevates bilirubin in the body, and sugarcane helps control the bilirubin levels. In jaundice, the body breaks proteins and raises bilirubin levels, and sugarcane juice helps replenish the protein count rapidly.

3. Promote stronger bones and teeth 

Sugarcane comes with a rich amount of calcium. Calcium is required for kids and developing adults. That can strengthen the bones and make teeth stronger. It can help in getting teeth faster as well. Drinking a glass of sugarcane can help reduce the risk of developing osteoporosis. If you have strong teeth, consume raw sugarcane, which will help you consume more fiber into your system. Besides this, sugar cane is also rich in phosphorus and aids in strengthening tooth enamel, preventing tooth decay. It can help with bad breath and tackle the problems arising from nutritional deficiencies. 

4. Eliminate toxins

Sugarcane is a diuretic which means that it helps in diluting uric acid in the body. It also helps eliminate the toxins in the body. Drinking sugarcane juice can help with urinary tract infections and remove kidney stones. By its properties, sugarcane juice is well-balanced. There are many different ways of using sugarcane to deal with kidney stones and the build-up of uric acid. One can get a glass of juice from the local place or consume the packed sugarcane juice, mix it with coconut water, and drink it twice daily. Of course, you can also eat raw sugarcane.

5. Treat anemia

Sugarcane and its juice are highly beneficial for people suffering from anemia since they contain a high quantity of iron, which boosts the body's hemoglobin (Hb) levels. You can drink sugarcane juice or chew raw sugarcane to prevent or fight anemia.

6. Improve digestion system

Sugarcane is known to relieve digestive problems like pH levels and potassium imbalances. Therefore, it is known as a digestive tonic. This property helps reduce the secretions of digestive juices and keeps the body functioning correctly. Another property that aids digestion is sugarcane juice's amount of fiber, like having a higher amount of fiber and the ability to clean the digestive tract and reduce constipation.

7. Boosts immunity 

Sugarcane is a good source of vitamin C, calcium, phosphorus, and antioxidants; these antioxidants can help boost the body's immunity. The immune system is the body's first defense against microorganisms. A robust immune system helps prevent many diseases and keep inflammatory disorders at bay.

8. Aids in a healthy pregnancy

Sugarcane is a rich source of nutrients like folic acid, vitamin - B complex, antioxidants, and calcium. Folic acid and vitamin B9 are associated with reduced chances of folic acid neural disabilities. Regularly drink a glass of sugarcane juice and keep the problems associated with pregnancies at a minimum. Sugarcane is very beneficial for pregnant women.

9. Cure acne

Sugarcane juice can help treat skin problems like acne. The different substances in sugarcane juice, like glycolic acid, help remove the build-up of dead skin and acne. Add a tablespoon of sugarcane juice with flour or fuller's earth and make it a mask consistency. Then apply it on the face and neck and let it dry for 20-25 minutes, then wash and pat dry your face.

10. Prevent & treat STDs/UTIs

If there is inflammation in the body due to a urinary tract infection or a sexually transmitted disease, inflammation in the prostate glands, and kidney stones, then taking a few glasses of sugarcane juice with lemon or coconut water can relieve the pain and inflammation. In addition, the pain can be relieved by getting a proper dose of fiber and nutrients; sugarcane has such components.

11. Heals the Wound

The benefits of sugarcane also involve wound-healing properties. A high concentration of natural sucrose can cure any lesion in a short period. You may also apply sugarcane juice to the injured region to hasten the healing process.

12. Supports muscle function

Sugarcane juice supports muscle function due to its high potassium content. Potassium is an important electrolyte that helps regulate fluid balance in the body and plays a key role in muscle function. When you exercise, you sweat and lose fluids, including electrolytes like potassium. Low potassium levels can lead to muscle cramps, weakness, and other muscle problems. Drinking sugarcane juice, which is high in potassium, can help replenish the body's electrolyte balance and support healthy muscle function.

13. Aids in weight loss

Sugarcane juice is low in calories and can help control cravings, making it a useful addition to a weight loss diet. Some studies suggest that drinking sugarcane juice can help boost metabolism, which can help you burn more calories and support weight loss.

Potential Side Effects Of Sugarcane To Be Aware Of

While sugarcane is packed with nutrients and benefits, excessive consumption or specific health conditions can lead to minor drawbacks. Here are some considerations:-

1. Blood Sugar Spike

• Can cause rapid increases in blood glucose levels

• Potentially problematic for diabetics or those with insulin resistance

2. Dental Health Issues

• High sugar content can contribute to tooth decay

• Increases risk of cavities if consumed frequently

3. Weight Gain

• Despite being natural, sugarcane contains significant calories

• Excessive consumption can lead to unwanted weight gain

4. Digestive Problems

• May cause bloating

• Can trigger diarrhea in some individuals if consumed in large quantities

• Potential digestive discomfort for those with sensitive stomachs

5. Potential Allergic Reactions

• Some individuals might experience allergic responses

• Can cause skin rashes or respiratory issues in rare cases

6. Interactions with Medications

• May interfere with blood sugar medications

• Can potentially affect insulin sensitivity

7. Dental Enamel Erosion

• High sugar content can gradually weaken tooth enamel

• Increases risk of long-term dental complications

8. Potential Pesticide Exposure

• If not organically grown, might contain pesticide residues

• Can pose health risks with prolonged exposure

9. Kidney Strain

• Excessive sugar intake can potentially burden kidney function

• May increase the risk of kidney-related complications

10. Nutritional Imbalance

• Overconsumption might replace more nutritionally diverse foods in the diet

• Can lead to micronutrient deficiencies if not balanced properly

Who Should Avoid Sugarcane?

While sugarcane juice is highly beneficial, certain individuals should consume it with caution. People who should avoid or limit sugarcane consumption include:

1. Diabetics

2. Individuals with Insulin Resistance

3. People with Weight Management Concerns

5. Those with Dental Health Issues

6. Individuals with Kidney Problems

7. People with Digestive Disorders

8. Those Taking Specific Medications

9. Individuals with Liver Concerns

10. People with Allergic Predispositions

11. Those with Cardiovascular Risk Factors

For the majority, sugarcane juice is safe and beneficial. However, those with these specific health conditions may need to limit their consumption.

Summary

Sugarcane is widely grown in many countries and is a major sucrose or normal sugar source in everyday delicacies. The benefits of sugarcane are numerous, as it helps with digestion, strengthens the immune system, and fortifies teeth and bones. It can also be beneficial for pregnant women. Readily available in the market, sugarcane can be consumed with coconut water or other juices. Additionally, it is rich in fiber and other nutrients.

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