Lauren Au, RD

Sugar vs. Sugar Cane Juice

February 8th, 2009

Morgan wrote on February 3rd, 2009:

“I LOVE sugar. Is it ”cheating” to eat candy/snacks made from organic sugar cane juice? What are the biggest differences between processed sugar and sugar cane juice. Any thoughts on carob and unsweetened cocoa?”

Organic sugar cane juice will provide you with the same amount of calories as regular white table sugar. The only difference is in the processing. Unlike refined sugar, cane juice retains more of the nutrients (i.e., riboflavin) found in the sugar cane when compared to processed sugar. So if you are concerned about calorie content, I would recommend either cutting the sugar content in your baked goods or substituting healthier ingredients, like increasing yogurt or fruit in the recipe.

Lastly, carob can be used as an alternative than chocolate. It is free from caffeine and theobromine, which are stimulants found in chocolate. It is also naturally sweet so many carob products have less sugar than chocolate. However, just as with most sweets, it should be eaten in moderation with a balanced diet.

Lauren

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