By-Product Benefits

     Yesterday I wrote about the different levels of molasses, a by-product of the refining process of sugar cane and sugar beets.   When no additional sugar can be crystallized the residue that remains is molasses, a viscous, residual syrup.  It contains valuable substances that are beneficial to your health.  Let's take a look at what's actually in molasses.

Calcium

     "Calcium is the most abundant mineral found in your body.", writes Karen Curinga in a February 9, 2014 on-line article for Livestrong.com.  "Molasses is rich in calcium." She describes how it is crucial in building and maintaining strong bones and teeth.  Calcium helps to prevent osteoporosis.  Each 3.5 ounce serving of molasses contains 205 mg of the mineral that contributes to the healthy functioning of heart and nerve systems.  That's 21% of the daily values set by the FDA.

Magnesium

     Magnesium plays an important role in the activation of more than 300 enzymes that regulate the body's functioning.  Combined with calcium magnesium maintains proper muscle contraction and regulates blood pressure.  There is 61% of the daily value (242 mg) of magnesium in a mere 3.5 ounces of molasses.

Potassium

     Just like magnesium, potassium plays an important role in the activation of enzymes, specifically related to carbohydrate and protein metabolism.  Potassium also helps maintain a steady heartbeat and helps balance body fluids.  3.5 ounces of molasses contains 1,464 mg of potassium, 42% of the recommended daily value.

Antioxidants

     Molasses, especially the dark and blackstrap varieties, is rich in antioxidants.  Studies have shown that substituting alternative sweeteners like molasses in place of refined sugars can increase antioxidant levels on a par with a serving of berries or nuts.

So it's time to hunt for that bottle of molasses that's hidden in the back of your pantry and find more uses for this healthy alternative to sugar.