Maple syrup in coffee? Sweet study finds a healthy replacement for sugar
By StudyFinds
Maple syrup is just the best when you pour it on your pancakes, but a new study finds it’s time to start pouring it on everything else as well! Groundbreaking research suggests that this delicious Canadian staple might be more than just a tasty breakfast condiment — it could be a secret weapon in preventing metabolic diseases.
A team from Laval University in Quebec has discovered compelling evidence that replacing just two tablespoons of refined sugar with pure maple syrup could significantly reduce several key risk factors for heart disease and diabetes. This first-of-its-kind human clinical trial reveals that maple syrup is far more than a simple sweetener.
What Makes Maple Syrup Special?
“We know from decades of research that maple syrup is more than just sugar. It contains over 100 natural compounds, including polyphenols, that are known to prevent disease in part through their anti-inflammatory effects,” explains Dr. André Marette, the lead scientist on the project, in a media release.
The study published in The Journal of Nutrition tracked 42 healthy volunteers between the ages of 18 and 75, with body mass indexes (BMI) ranging from 23 to 40. These volunteers replaced 5% of their daily calories with either maple syrup or a refined sugar syrup during two separate eight-week periods, with a four-week break between.
The results were nothing short of remarkable. Participants who consumed maple syrup experienced four major health benefits:
- Better Blood Sugar Control: Their bodies managed blood sugar levels significantly more effectively compared to the refined sugar group.
- Lower Blood Pressure: Systolic blood pressure decreased by nearly 3 points in the maple syrup group, while it slightly increased in the refined sugar group.
- Reduced Abdominal Fat: The maple syrup group saw a decrease in visceral fat—the dangerous deep belly fat linked to serious health risks like heart disease and diabetes.
- Improved Gut Health: An unexpected discovery showed a reduction in harmful gut bacteria and an increase in beneficial bacteria.
What Healthy Nutrients Are Hiding In Maple Syrup?
Nutritionally, two tablespoons of maple syrup offer more than just sweetness. It provides:
- 35% of daily manganese
- 15% of riboflavin
- Small amounts of calcium, thiamin, potassium, and copper
- 12% fewer calories than light corn syrup
“Both individually and collectively, the study findings are quite significant,” Dr. Marette notes. “The combined decrease of such key risk factors may help to reduce the risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease.”
While the study was small and short-term, it opens up exciting possibilities. Dr. Marette is already planning larger studies to explore how maple syrup might impact different groups of people.
“Before the study, I would consume pure maple products regularly but not consistently. Today my routine is to replace refined sugars with 2 tablespoons of pure Canadian maple syrup daily,” one study participant says.
So, the next time you’re reaching for the sugar, you might want to think about grabbing a bottle of maple syrup instead — your heart will thank you.
Paper Summary
Methodology
This study was a well-structured, randomized, double-blind, controlled crossover trial. It involved 42 adults who were overweight and had mild metabolic issues. Participants substituted 5% of their daily caloric intake from added refined sugars with either maple syrup or an artificial sucrose syrup over two eight-week periods, separated by a four-week break. Key measurements included glucose levels, fat distribution, blood pressure, and gut microbiota changes. The research team ensured dietary consistency by closely monitoring participants’ meals.
Key Results
The study showed that swapping refined sugar for maple syrup had some health benefits. People who used maple syrup had lower blood sugar spikes during a test, slightly reduced belly fat, and lowered blood pressure compared to those who used refined sugar. Interestingly, maple syrup also appeared to change gut bacteria, reducing harmful types linked to inflammation and boosting beneficial ones. However, maple syrup didn’t significantly affect weight, overall cholesterol, or fat levels.
Study Limitations
While the findings are promising, the study had some limitations. The number of participants was small, and certain measurements, like liver fat content, couldn’t be fully analyzed due to incomplete data. The study was also short-term, lasting only eight weeks, so it’s unclear if these benefits would continue over a longer period. Finally, since the participants were primarily from a specific demographic group, the results may not apply to everyone.
Discussion & Takeaways
Replacing just 5% of daily calories from refined sugar with maple syrup might help improve blood sugar control and lower some markers of metabolic health, particularly in those with mild metabolic issues. This suggests that while maple syrup should still be consumed in moderation, it could be a slightly better alternative to refined sugars for people trying to manage their health. Additionally, its impact on gut bacteria is intriguing and warrants further exploration.
Funding & Disclosures
This research was funded by the Producteurs et Productrices Acéricoles du Québec and the Quebec Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Food. The sponsors had no influence on the study design, data analysis, or reporting. Some researchers received scholarships or funding from other academic institutions and organizations, ensuring robust support for the study. However, the lead researchers disclosed affiliations with entities in related industries, such as a Pfizer Research Chair and Canada Research Chairs.
Source: StudyFinds
StudyFinds sets out to find new research that speaks to mass audiences — without all the scientific jargon. The stories we publish are digestible, summarized versions of research that are intended to inform the reader as well as stir civil, educated debate. StudyFinds Staff articles are AI assisted, but always thoroughly reviewed and edited by a Study Finds staff member. Read our AI Policy for more information.
Image: New clinical trials show that Maple Syrup from Canada is the ‘Smarter Sweetener.’ (Credit: Maple from Canada)
