1. Less calories
Maple syrup is 32% water and 68% carbohydrates, 80% of which are sugars. The other sugars found in maple syrup are glucose and fructose. For an equal amount of sugar, its energy value represents 1/3 less calories.
2. A lower glycemic index (GI) than sugar
Indeed, its GI is 55 compared to 70 for sugar - which has the advantage of raising blood glucose levels less. Thus, a study from Laval University showed that the cells capture the glucose present without causing high insulin secretion.
3. A natural and allergen-free syrup
Derived solely from maple sap, maple syrup has not undergone any transformation, apart from cooking, and contains no coloring or additives. In addition, Quebec maple syrup producers sign a declaration of non-use of allergens during the manufacturing process, guaranteeing a product that can be consumed by all.
4. Maple, a source of antioxidants
Maple syrup is one of the only sugars to contain antioxidants in significant quantities (3 to 5 times more than honey): indeed, a 60 ml serving of maple syrup has an antioxidant capacity comparable to that of a banana or a slice of broccoli. This is due to manganese which participates in cell protection and polyphenols which help reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, obesity and cardiovascular disease.
5. Multiple uses
Maple syrup can replace refined sugar in all culinary preparations. Used both as a sugar in hot drinks or to sweeten breakfast cereals, its light caramel flavor enhances pancakes, yogurts, pancakes, waffles, muffins, fruit salads, cakes. And it can go well with savory dishes, poultry and meat.
6. An environmentally friendly harvest
Maple producers never harvest water from a maple whose trunk is less than 20 cm in diameter. The general rule is therefore to wait up to 45 years after planting a maple tree before starting to harvest its water. A sugar maple can live up to 300 years, or even more!
7. A unique color for a unique taste
Its flavor and color vary from month to month. At the beginning of the season, the syrup is clear and its taste slightly sweet. The more the season progresses, the more the maple syrup takes on a dark and caramelized color.
