Health Benefits of Molasses

Molasses is the thick, dark substance produced when sugar syrup is boiled to get to its crystalline form. It has about the same caloric value as sugar and many prefer its robust flavor. It is often used in baking, particularly in gingerbread and molasses cookies. Molasses contains a variety of minerals that can boost your health in a number of ways. There are several different types, or grades, of molasses. Blackstrap molasses, produced by the third boiling of the sugar syrup, has the greatest nutritional value.

Significance

• Molasses is an excellent source of iron, calcium, copper and manganese. It is also a good source of potassium and magnesium.

Good for Anemia

• One tbs. of molasses consumed daily can help replenish your iron stores, helping to correct anemia. The iron increase will also boost your energy level.

Muscle Benefits

• By supplying calcium to the body, molasses works to help muscles contract properly, including the heart.

Bone and Teeth Health

• The calcium in molasses also helps to develop and maintain healthy bones and teeth. Bone problems occurring during menopause can also be prevented.

Eases Menopause Symptoms

• Menopause is the result of different conditions, including a deficiency of mineral salts in the body. Consumption of molasses can help with a number of menopause symptoms such as PMS, cramping, mood swings and hot flashes. It is believed that molasses consumption can also reduce the size of fibroid tumors.

A Healing Agent

• Molasses promotes the healing of wounds and also binds with toxins in the colon to fight against colon cancer.

Warning

• Individuals diagnosed with diabetes and lupus should consult their health practitioner before consuming large amounts of blackstrap molasses.