Tag: Sugar vs maple syrup

While pure maple syrup has a lower glycemic index (GI) than table sugar, it is still a concentrated source of carbohydrates that can affect blood sugar levels. For individuals managing diabetes, understanding the nuances of any sweetener is crucial for maintaining stable glucose levels.

According to the American Heart Association, most American adults consume far more than the recommended daily amount of added sugar, leading many to seek alternatives. In this debate over what is worse, sugar or maple syrup, the answer is nuanced, depending on nutritional content, glycemic impact, and overall moderation.

A single tablespoon of pure maple syrup contains approximately 52 calories, most of which come from its high concentration of carbohydrates. The seemingly innocent drizzle on your pancakes can add up quickly, leaving many to wonder: why is maple syrup so high in calories?

A 2024 study showed that substituting refined sugar with pure maple syrup improved several cardiometabolic risk factors in humans. But does this mean eating maple syrup is better than sugar for everyone, or is it still just sugar? This article compares the two sweeteners to uncover the nutritional facts.