Yacon syrup, derived from the roots of the yacon plant, is a glucose-free sugar substitute that does not raise blood sugar levels. It is a good source of antioxidants and fructooligosaccharide (FOS), which is not absorbed by the body. Yacon syrup is low in calories and can be used as a vegan alternative to sugar or honey. It has a deep, rich flavor and can be used in recipes or to sweeten drinks. Yacon syrup may have some health benefits, including promoting healthy bacteria in the colon and regulating the digestive system, but more studies are needed.
Yacon syrup is a sugar substitute native to the Andean region of South America. It is glucose-free and does not raise blood sugar levels. For this reason, yacon syrup is often recommended as a sweetener for those with diabetes or at risk of becoming diabetic.
The syrup is derived from the roots of the yacon plant and according to some studies it is a good source of antioxidants. The yacon plant tastes similar to jicama, but is biologically closer to the sunflower family. The component that gives the roots a sweet taste is fructooligosaccharide, or FOS. Tuberous roots can be made up of nearly 50% FOS and are believed to be the largest producers of saccharide in the natural world.
Since the body cannot process FOS, it passes through the system leaving no absorbable sugar residue. It’s also relatively low in calories, compared to most other sweeteners. The process to create it is vegan and can be used by vegans averse to regular sugar or honey.
Yacon syrup is often compared to molasses, caramel, or honey in taste, with a deep, rich flavor. It easily replaces maple sugar or molasses in recipes and can be used to sweeten drinks. It is typically sold in jars like honey and can be purchased online or at specialty food stores. A typical 8-ounce (226-gram) bottle costs about $12 US Dollars (USD.)
If you’re looking to reduce your intake of unhealthy sugar, yacon syrup can be a useful substitute for sugar in your diet. Try swirling it in oatmeal or granola. It can be spread over fruit and complemented with red pepper flakes for an unusual dessert. You can also easily mix a few drops into your morning coffee or tea. Remember that the sweetness is quite strong and use sparingly in recipes.
Some studies have suggested that yacon syrup may be beneficial to the body in moderate amounts. Contains and promotes healthy bacteria that help cleanse the colon and regulate the digestive system. In some countries, such as Brazil and Bolivia, the leaves of the yacon plant are brewed into a tea that is said to fight diabetes. The health benefits of yacon syrup have not been extensively tested, but information from published studies suggests a mildly beneficial effect on the body.
For diabetics, vegans and those reducing their sugar intake, yacon syrup is a healthy alternative to synthesized sweeteners. For those looking to increase the amount of natural foods in their diet, it can also be a welcome addition. Many magazines and health food experts consider yacon syrup a newly discovered wonder food, but more studies need to be done before truly determining the many claims of beneficial health effects.
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