Blackstrap Molasses Grey Hair Forum? The 103 Latest Answer

Molasses is a thick syrup made from processed sugar cane. The largest producers of this sticky and sweet by-product and processing of sugar cane are Brazil, India, the Philippines, Taiwan, Thailand and the United States. Blackstrap molasses gained quite a popularity in the mid 20’s

Century, especially for health-conscious eaters.

The difference between regular molasses and blackstrap is that regular molasses is the first or second boil of cane syrup while blackstrap is made from the third boil with a 5% increased iron content.

Benefits of Blackstrap Molasses

Blackstrap molasses contains vitamin B6, calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, potassium and selenium. It has the highest amount of antioxidants compared to refined sugar, corn syrup, raw cane sugar and other sweeteners available. This is a safe sweetener for diabetics because, unlike refined sugar, blackstrap molasses has a moderate glycemic load of only 55. It has a laxative quality and helps with headaches and fatigue. White sugar and corn syrup are stripped of virtually all nutrients except carbohydrates, and artificial sweeteners like saccharin and aspartame can sometimes cause health problems. Blackstrap molasses is by far a healthier and more satisfying sweetener option in the sugar wars.

4 Reasons to Use Blackstrap Molasses for Hair

There are amazing reasons why you should try this natural sweetener for your hair.

1. The minerals & nutrients

Blackstrap molasses is packed with minerals and nutrients. Its high copper content helps the body produce melanin, the pigment responsible for hair color. The same nutrients help nourish and strengthen the strands.

2. Natural deep conditioning

It is also a rich natural deep conditioner that helps hair become silky and smooth. Daily consumption of Blackstrap Molasses can contribute to overall good hair health over time, while topical use helps soften grays and add shine.

3. The antioxidants

Copper is the powerhouse for better hair quality in the makeup of blackstrap molasses, followed by iron, but these antioxidants don’t just sit around doing nothing. Manganese is a powerful antioxidant that contributes to a healthy scalp by fighting free radical activity and oxidative stress. Stress affects hair in the same way it affects the rest of the body, contributing to premature aging and even hair loss.

4. Natural cleaning

Blackstrap molasses can also be used as a shampoo, but the sticky thickness can be off-putting. One option is to dilute the molasses with water or mix it with a hair-friendly ingredient like coconut milk and leave it on the scalp for 15 minutes. Wash it off with warm water and these nutrients will have effectively nourished and cleansed your scalp. If that doesn’t sound appealing, there are other solutions that are just as effective and make less of a gooey mess.

Blackstrap Deep Conditioning Hair Mask

Would you like to try molasses right away? Here’s a deeply conditioning hair mask that requires only a few ingredients and will leave your hair and scalp feeling silky and smooth.

what you will need

2 TBSP. black molasses

¼ cup whole milk yogurt

1 teaspoon. ACV

2 drops of rosemary essential oil (optional)

directions

Whisk together all ingredients except rosemary. After mixing, add essential oil and massage into scalp and hair. Cover with a shower cap and leave on for up to 15 minutes. before shampooing. Style as usual.

Have you tried blackstrap molasses and if so, for your hair?

LOS ANGELES — Today Attorney General Kamala D. Harris, along with 11 California district attorneys and the nonprofit Center for Environmental Health, announced a landmark settlement with food industry giant Mondelēz International, Inc., formerly Kraft Foods, over the sale of ginger schnapps cookies to Lead containing that exceeds California limits without the warning required by California’s Proposition 65. A consent verdict was filed Thursday in the Orange County Superior Court and is awaiting approval by a judge.

“Lead levels found in Nabisco’s Ginger Snap cookies posed a serious public health threat and potentially impacted the brain development of our children,” said Attorney General Harris. “Parents need accurate information to make informed nutritional choices for their children. My office will continue to enforce Proposition 65 to ensure all Californians are fully informed when hazardous substances and chemicals may be found in consumer products.”

As part of the settlement, Mondelēz will agree to strict product sourcing and testing protocols that limit lead content in its Nabisco Ginger Snap cookies to no more than 30 parts per billion per serving, and will pay approximately $750,000 in civil penalties, costs and attorneys’ fees. In addition, the company will hire a food quality auditor to train staff, fund ongoing independent audits of its products to monitor lead, and monitor supply chains to ensure raw materials are within acceptable limits.

Lead is a neurotoxin that primarily affects the central nervous system, putting children with developing brains at greater risk of suffering from the neurotoxic effects of lead. Although a safe limit for lead exposure has not been established, California Proposition 65 requires consumers to be warned if they are exposed to 0.5 micrograms of lead per serving per day. The FDA recommends that children avoid ingesting candies that contain more than 100 parts per billion lead.

The Attorney General’s Office and District Attorneys’ Office began investigating Nabisco Ginger Snaps in 2013 after an investigation by the Center for Environmental Health into these and other ginger-containing cookies. Tests found that one serving of Nabisco-branded ginger snaps contained lead levels up to 9 times the level that requires a Proposition 65 warning. Mondelēz did not issue any Proposition 65 warnings to its customers.

The ginger schnapps biscuits have now been reformulated. Sources of lead in the biscuits have been linked to ginger and molasses. Experts have linked high levels of lead in molasses to the soil on which sugar is grown and also to the manufacturing process. Sources of lead in ginger powder have also been linked to contaminated soils where ginger is grown and the curing process in which it is dried.

Mondelēz is the world’s largest producer of processed snack foods. Mondelēz brands include Nabisco, Oreo, Cadbury and Trident. The subject of the lawsuit was Nabisco branded ginger schnapps biscuits.

Proposition 65, The Safe Drinking Water and Toxic Enforcement Act of 1986, is California’s landmark law designed to protect public health and the environment by requiring companies to issue warnings if they provide individuals with at least one listed carcinogen or reproductive toxicity expose Each year, the state must update a list of chemicals known to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm. This list includes approximately 800 chemicals. Proposition 65 requires businesses to notify Californians of significant amounts of chemicals in the products they buy, homes or workplaces, or that are released into the environment. It also prohibits California businesses from knowingly discharging significant amounts of the listed chemicals into sources of drinking water.

This settlement is part of a series of cases that Attorney General Harris and her predecessors successfully pursued under Proposition 65 to remove lead from a variety of consumer products, including Mexican candy and soda, artificial turf, jewelry and vitamins and dietary supplements.

The 11 district attorney’s offices involved in the lawsuit are part of the California Food, Drug and Medical Device Task Force, which pursues cross-judicial product safety and labeling efforts in California for food, drug and medical devices. The task force will include consumer prosecutors from Orange, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, Alameda, Sonoma, Napa, Shasta, Solano, Marin and Monterey counties.

In early 2015, Attorney General Kamala D. Harris announced the creation of the Bureau of Children’s Justice (BCJ) within the California Department of Justice. BCJ’s mission is to protect the rights of children and to direct the attention and resources of law enforcement and policymakers to the importance of protecting the rights of every child so that they can reach their full potential. BCJ is staffed with civil rights and law enforcement officers and works in all areas of the Department of Justice, including Legislative Affairs, Native American Affairs, the Department of Law Enforcement, and other departments. BCJ focuses its enforcement and policy reform efforts on several key areas, including discrimination and inequalities in education; systemic reform of foster, adoption and juvenile justice; and consumer protection in relation to services and products for children or families with children.

When you drink molasses every day, that’s what happens to your body

Molasses is a thick, syrupy, dark brown sweetener used in a variety of recipes. It is a by-product of processing sugar cane and sugar beets. When molasses first came to the United States, it was originally used to make rum and remained the sweetener of choice until the 18th century because it was cheaper than white granulated sugar. However, the economics of sugar changed after World War I, causing people to change their allegiance to refined sugar. Fast forward to today, and a health-conscious population could be pushing molasses back into the popularity fray.

While you might think of cookies or sweetened baked beans when you think of molasses, the sweetener is also finding its way into salad dressings and bread recipes. It’s part of Padma Lakshi’s secret ingredient to add flavor to her food, and some people even believe it can help relieve digestive problems.

But what happens to your body when you drink molasses every day?

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A few strands of gray hair popping out in random places on your head might freak you out, especially if you’re in your 20s or 30s. It’s natural for hair follicles to lose their pigment and turn gray/white with age, but in your 20’s and 30’s it can happen for a variety of reasons, and include genetics, nutritional deficiencies, improper dietary practices, use of harsh chemicals in hair care products, and certain medical conditions just a few triggers that we can name now. Of course, there are various hair colors and dyes on the market that can help you cover the gray effectively, but these hair dyes are full of chemicals and can damage hair with regular use. Because of this, it would be a good idea to look for natural ingredients that can darken gray hair and in this post we list 10 unusual and natural ingredients to darken gray hair. But unlike chemical hair dyes, these work slowly and don’t show instant results, so you need to be patient and consistent in their use.

1. Black Tea: One of the best ways to make hair color black is by using black tea. How to prepare a black tea concoction for gray hair. Boil three bags of black tea in 2 cups of water and allow to cool to room temperature. Apply this liquid to the hair or use it as a final rinse after shampooing. Do this twice a week to see visible results.

2. Coffee: Using coffee is one of the conventional and unconditional methods to cover gray hair easily. If you are getting darker hair and want to prevent gray hair completely, use coffee regularly. Just take a cup of coffee and mix it with a cup of water. You can also add 2-3 spoons of ground coffee and let it dissolve. Allow the coffee powder to completely dissolve and then apply it to your hair. Leave it on for an hour and wash off with cold water. Using espresso coffee is one of the best coffees that works well. Coffee contains pigments that discolor your hair, leaving you with dark, shiny, and healthy hair.

3. Potato Peel: Many women have claimed that potatoes have helped them reduce hyperpigmentation and dark spots. Many have also confirmed that using potato juice regularly has helped reduce dark circles and puffiness. All of this happens because potatoes contain an enzyme called “catecholase” that helps reduce hyperpigmentation, lighten skin, reduce dark spots and acne scars. But potato skins, too, with their high starch content, can cover white hair. Along with onion juice, fresh potato juice can act as a hair tonic. But to dye hair, collect half a cup of potato skins and boil them in 2 cups of water. After the liquid has cooled after boiling for 10 minutes, use it as a final rinse after shampooing your hair.

4. Ridged Gourd/Torai: No, don’t be surprised! You probably have no idea, but this vegetable can darken hair. To use this vegetable for hair, soak dry tori pieces in coconut oil for 4 to 5 days. Cook this mixture until the oil turns dark and thick. Apply this oil to the hair after it has completely cooled. Use this mixture regularly to darken white hair.

5. Bhringraj: This herb is used extensively in Ayurvedic treatments to treat a variety of hair problems. To use bhringraj for hair, mix 1 tbsp bhringraj powder and 2 tbsp coconut oil and heat for 5 minutes. Massage this oil onto the scalp and through the hair. Do this twice a week to see a noticeable change.

6. Henna: We have been using henna to dye hair since ancient times, but using henna with black tea or coffee can dye the hair a deep shade. Make this mixture overnight and leave it on the hair for 1 hour, rinse with regular water. Read “What ingredients to mix in henna powder to turn white hair black?”.

7. Amla: Amla is known to prevent scalp infections, hair loss, and premature graying. It adds shine and shine to hair due to its astringent nature. Amla is rich in vitamin C and when mixed with other herbs helps to make hair healthy, strong and black again. Use amla in a hair wrap like this – prepare some fresh henna paste and add 3 tablespoons of amla powder and 1 tablespoon of ground coffee. Mix everything together and form a paste by adding a little water. Apply to all hair, leave on for 2 hours and rinse with a mild shampoo. This hair pack also makes the hair healthy and strong.

8. Jatamansi: Musk root or Jatamansi is used extensively in Ayurveda to prepare hair preparations. Musk root makes hair strong, healthy and with regular use can dye hair a dark shade. Mix 2 tbsp jatamansi powder in 200 ml coconut oil, leave it on overnight and massage the hair with this oil the next day. This can also be thought of as a hair tonic to boost hair growth.

9. Sage: This is another herb used in hair tonics to make hair healthy, but fresh leaves boiled in water and used as a final rinse can darken hair.

10. Beetroot Juice: Beetroot is a nutritional powerhouse, and not only is it great for your skin, but it can also help deepen hair color. With its natural deep red pigment, it can add gorgeous color to your hair and you can use it by mixing beetroot juice with coconut oil and massaging hair thoroughly with this oil, leave on for 1 or 2 hours and rinse with a mild one Shampoo.

So these were some natural remedies to darken hair color. If you have any other home remedies, please let us know in the comments below.

What ingredients need to be mixed in henna powder to turn white hair black?

7 reasons why beets are good for your skin and hair

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It is normal for hair color to change with age. But white hair can appear at almost any point in life. Even teenagers and people in their 20s can notice strands of white hair. The human body has millions of hair follicles, or small sacs, lining the skin. The follicles produce hair and color or pigment cells that contain melanin. Over time, hair follicles lose pigment cells, resulting in white hair color. In this article, we look at some common causes of prematurely white hair, as well as ways to slow or, in some cases, prevent the graying process. Fast facts on white hair: Vitamin deficiencies can cause hair to turn white prematurely.

Smoking has long been associated with premature graying.

Preventing white hair depends on its cause.

If you remember the term chlorophyll, you still have a memory from your old elementary school science class.

Chlorophyll is responsible for the green pigment in leafy plants and plays a very important role in the energy production of plants through the process of photosynthesis. Not only does it help plants stay healthy, but it can also be good for our bodies. Through years of research into chlorophyll, it has been found to offer many health and beauty benefits.

What it can do for your hair

According to Follicleanse, “Chlorophyll is rich in minerals, vitamins, proteins and micronutrients. There are specific nutrients that the follicle uses to synthesize proteins into keratin to produce healthy hair and nails.”

Nutrients found in chlorophyll include vitamins B, D and E, calcium and potassium, which are vital for healthy hair and nail growth. In addition to hair growth, chlorophyll has been found to actually slow the progression of gray hair by continuously producing melanin in pigment cells in hair follicles.

What it can do for your body

In addition to essential vitamins, chlorophyll also has a high oxygen content. The high levels of oxygen and nitrogen are known to improve blood flow throughout the body and stimulate red blood cell production. Increasing the number of red blood cells in your body helps heal cuts and wounds, fights infection, and repairs damaged tissue.

In addition to its high oxygen and nitrogen content, chlorophyll also contains a very special mineral, magnesium. It is responsible for chlorophyll production. Magnesium is at the core of chlorophyll, which helps plants and animals convert food into energy and is vital for the functioning of cells, bones, and tissues in your body. It is also known for its ability to reduce the amount of smoke in our environment and help us breathe lighter, fresher and cleaner air.

How to incorporate chlorophyll into your health routine

You can easily add chlorophyll to your diet through leafy green plants or by taking chlorophyll supplements. Because chlorophyll is naturally packed with nutrients, cooking leafy plants greatly reduces the amount of nutrients you benefit from, so you might want to opt for a salad instead. You can buy chlorophyll supplements at your local health food and drug store. We recommend consulting your doctor before including any supplements in your diet.

Does Blackstrap Molasses Contain Harmful Chemicals?

by Nebula Haze

Many cannabis growers use unsulphured blackstrap molasses as a supplement to improve bud quality. Typically they add a small amount to the water they give their plants (for example 1/2 tsp/gallon in the last 1-3 weeks before harvest). Some soil growers also add small amounts of molasses to feed the microbes and microorganisms in a living soil or super soil. Marijuana growers have loved using molasses for decades.

Breeders have been feeding cannabis plants blackstrap molasses (as a supplement in water) for decades.

That’s why we were shocked when we received the following email from a reader stating that Blackstrap molasses includes a cancer warning from California! We thought there must be something wrong with this particular brand of molasses, but we soon learned that nearly all Blackstrap molasses contain traces of certain chemicals, including lead and acrylamide.

Here is the email we received:

A few days ago I ordered the Golden Barrel Black Strap Molasses. The label reads, “Consumption of this product could expose you to lead and acrylamide.” You don’t want to poison your readers, do you? Well I could suggest a few of them. I have uploaded a photo of the warning sign.

We actually wrote to the manufacturer and this is what they said:

This topic is currently confusing and controversial. The bottom line is that the state of California has created its own list of chemicals and threshold levels it believes could be harmful. Traces of lead occur naturally in sugar cane, which is concentrated along with other minerals in black ribbon molasses. There is no actual evidence that the lead in molasses could cause deficiencies, but because California has this list and threshold, any item sold in California that contains lead requires this warning. The amount of lead in blackstrap molasses is 0.3 parts per million. To meet the standards of the Food Chemicals Codex, food must not contain more than 10 ppm lead. If blackstrap molasses is found to be sold in California without this warning, anyone can file a manufacturing lawsuit, which has happened to nearly every brand and producer of blackstrap molasses. A similar lawsuit is currently pending with the coffee industry for having acrylamide, which California says needs the same warning. You can google coffee and prop 65 for reference. In summary, the Blackstrap molasses hasn’t changed and we don’t add lead. It is a very small amount and occurs naturally. I hope this makes sense. Let me know if you have any further questions.

Conclusion

California requires a warning label on foods containing lead or acrylamide

Molasses naturally contains traces of lead and acrylamide

However, there is no evidence that molasses causes cancer

There isn’t much evidence that molasses can cause cancer, but regulations require foods with any amount of lead or acrylamide to carry a warning label.

Alternatives to molasses

There doesn’t seem to be much (if any) evidence that molasses safety is worth worrying about. However, if you’re concerned, there are a variety of products designed specifically for plants like cannabis that claim to have similar effects, including:

improve smell

Although I haven’t tried this yet, I’m really intrigued by Botanicare’s Sweet Carbo line. According to Botanicare:

The natural esters in Sweet are readily taken up by the plant but do not break down further once deposited in the plant tissue. This means that new flowers contain small amounts of these natural esters, which contribute to the overall flavor and aroma of the end product.

They offer citrus, berries, and “raw” (which is just a generally sweet smell). These should be used during the flowering phase to help build up smell/flavor in the buds as they mature. However, since these contain a small but significant amount of magnesium, they should not be used during flushing in the last 2-3 weeks before harvest. By this time, the smells have already settled into the buds. Another cool thing about these supplements is that they contain amino acids and some other boosters, so it’s like getting a lot of different products at once.

The Botanicare Sweet Carbo line offers cannabis supplements to make buds smell like citrus, berries or “raw” (a generally sweet smell).

Bloom Booster

The question of which is the most effective supplement is still awaited, but many growers are content with bloom-promoting supplements that are sources of…

amino acids

humic acids

vitamins

trace elements

often contain ingredients not listed (including plant hormones)

Personally, I don’t use this type of supplement, so I can’t recommend any particular one, but some of the most popular cannabis supplements based on this type of formula include…

Note: Whenever possible, try to get all of your nutrients and supplements from the same company. This significantly reduces the likelihood of unexpected reactions between the different products. Some companies “don’t play well together”.

Used as a sugar substitute in baking and as a healthy supplement, blackstrap molasses is slightly more nutritious than other varieties and has an intense, robust flavor and dark color. Golden Barrel Blackstrap Molasses is a good source of natural iron, calcium, magnesium and potassium. Check out our post on the benefits of Blackstrap Molasses and tasty ways you and your kids can enjoy it.

Click here for recipes and other information about Blackstrap molasses.

WARNING: Consumption of this product may expose you to chemicals such as lead and acrylamide, which are known to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information, visit www.P65Warnings.ca.gov/food.

** 12/16 OZ NARROW MOUTH BOXES: ONLY AVAILABLE BY PURCHASING A FULL PALLET (85 BOXES) DIRECTLY FROM US BY CALLING CUSTOMER SERVICE AT (800)327-4406 (NOTE: SMALL QUANTITIES NOT CURRENTLY AVAILABLE) **

***ALL OTHER SIZES: TO PURCHASE FULL PALLET QUANTITIES, PLEASE CONTACT CUSTOMER SERVICE. AT (800) 327-4406. SMALL QUANTITIES AND SINGLE JERSES CAN BE PURCHASED THROUGH A RETAILER BY CLICKING ON ANY OF THE FOLLOWING LINKS: WebstaurantStore (ship), The Restaurant Store (ship/collect) or Dutch Valley Foods***

Molasses, a thick syrup made from sugar cane juice, adds a distinctive flavor to recipes for gingerbread, baked beans and barbecue sauces. While it’s a useful ingredient to always have on hand, most home cooks find that they reach for it only occasionally or very rarely. Unlike honey, which can last well beyond a baker’s life, molasses has a shelf life. But under the right conditions, it will last a year or more.

Molasses storage tips

Unopened molasses jars should be stored in a cool, dry, dark place and have a shelf life of up to a year. Heat and humidity are the biggest threats to molasses; both can cause bacteria to grow into mold. To avoid turning your molasses into a science project, keep it in its original container and wipe the rim of the bottle clean before securely capping the jar after each use. Keep it in a cool, dry and dark place, e.g. B. in the back of your pantry. These storage tips apply to all types of commercially available molasses: light, dark, and black molasses, both sulphurized and unsulphurized varieties.

Although not required, you can also store molasses in the refrigerator; The refrigeration keeps the temperature constant, which is beneficial for molasses, especially in warm climates. If you’re storing the molasses in the fridge, remember that if you’re using it in a recipe, you need to plan ahead so you can take it out of the fridge and let it come to room temperature first — otherwise it’ll be thick and difficult to lean. Alternatively, you can gently heat the entire jar in a saucepan of warm water to reduce the viscosity. However, do not put it in the microwave as it may cause uneven heating. Once the molasses returns to a more liquid state, you can use it as usual.

molasses gone bad

Unlike many hard cheeses, which can be salvaged if a mold stain appears, molasses cannot be used once mold begins to grow. Mold on molasses can appear as a barely noticeable smear on the surface or a noticeably fuzzy, discolored spot. If you see even a tiny speck, throw out the entire jar.

Molasses can also deteriorate in less obvious ways. If it seems to have separated or has an unpleasant odor, it’s also time to buy a new bottle. Sometimes molasses can crystallize, which also indicates that it has turned. Subject your molasses to a little taste test before you use it again after a long period of storage; If it tastes and looks good, it’s probably still good.

Because the flavor of molasses degrades over time, both in an opened and unopened jar, be sure to check the “best before” date printed on the jar for a period of freshness. While it can still be perfectly safe to consume, after too long it will no longer give you the quality results your recipe deserves.

I’ve been advised to take a tablespoon of Blackstarp molasses every day, I’ve researched on the internet, it has excellent health benefits, I’ve also read that molasses produces melanin in the skin, which means it changes the color of the skin it becomes darker, since melanini makes the skin darker. I’m of Indian descent and don’t want to go darker, also I would like to know if taking molasses benefits the skin at all

Answer 2,322 views

anti-aging expert

Hello Nesh, thanks for the question.

Molasses is a good source of iron and calcium, as well as potassium, magnesium, copper, manganese and vitamin B6. There is no evidence that molasses increases melanin production, but there are claims that reversing gray hair is possible with the use of this substance.

This reversal is thought to be related to copper levels, rather than increasing the body’s production of melanin. As far as I’m aware, there is no evidence linking molasses to any specific anti-aging properties in skin.

The information provided does not constitute a diagnosis of your condition. You should consult a physician or other appropriate medical professional for a physical examination, diagnosis, and formal advice. Health24 and the expert accept no responsibility or liability for any damage or personal injury that you may incur as a result of using this content.

by John Staughton (BASc, BFA) last updated – ✓ Evidence-based

Blackstrap molasses is a nutritious sweetener that contains a significant amount of nutrients essential for the body to function properly. Blackstrap molasses’ top health benefits include its ability to reduce anxiety and stress, regulate diabetes, boost bone mineral density, prevent inflammation and reduce signs of aging, and prevent cancer, among other benefits.

The appearance of blackstrap molasses may not intrigue you, but the nutritional content of this sugarcane by-product has been well studied and shown to have many potential health benefits for those who include it in their diet.

What is blackstrap molasses?

Blackstrap molasses is a by-product of a process that converts sugar cane or sugar beets into sugar. Blackstrap molasses is unusual due to its viscous nature and extremely strong flavor. Molasses made from beet sugar usually tastes foul, but cane molasses is commonly used as a sweetener in other foods.

Making sugar is a somewhat complex process and requires a fair amount of cane processing. The first step is to pound cane and then boil it, resulting in cane syrup. If you cook this mixture for the second time, you can create molasses. Blackstrap molasses is the result of the third round of cooking. This thick, viscous material is dark brown, almost black, and contains many of the nutrients not found in sugar. As you may know, pure sugar has little nutritional benefit and is considered a risk factor for certain medical conditions. [1]

However, blackstrap molasses has the lowest sugar content of any sugar, cane syrup or molasses, giving it a rather bittersweet flavor as most of the sugar crystals have been removed. Blackstrap molasses is used extensively for culinary applications and traditional medicine in various parts of the world. It has earned a reputation as a “superfood,” and many studies have shown that this unique substance can be very good for your overall health. It is commonly used as a substitute for sugar in a variety of recipes.

Blackstrap Molasses Nutrition

Blackstrap molasses contains a rich supply of nutrients, including high levels of magnesium, manganese, calcium and vitamin B6, as well as good amounts of copper and protein. It also packs 60 calories in a single tablespoon, as well as a small amount of sugar. There are no fats or fiber in Blackstrap molasses. [2]

It is generally considered safe to have 1 tablespoon (20ml) with a cup of water each morning if you are trying to make it a regular part of your health regimen. [3]

Benefits of Blackstrap Molasses

Blackstrap molasses can be used for skin and hair care, digestive processes, blood sugar regulation, cholesterol control, circulatory problems and even metabolic functions!

skin care

Blackstrap molasses is a rich source of iron and magnesium, two minerals that are often overlooked when treating skin. By helping to address these mineral deficiencies [4], molasses can help deal with pale skin and cell renewal for radiant skin and a youthful appearance. [5]

Prevents gray hair

Traditional uses of this type of molasses include its use as a treatment for gray hair. The mineral content is believed to strengthen follicles and hair strands, resulting in less hair breakage and inflammatory conditions on the scalp that lead to hair loss. [6]

potential against cancer

Blackstrap molasses is known for being packed with a variety of nutrients, including antioxidants that help protect against oxidative damage, especially when compared to regular purified sugar. [7]

According to an article published in the [8]Journal of Carcinogenesis, this form of molasses can help counteract deficiencies in several minerals such as selenium, potassium, zinc, etc. that can increase the risk of cancer. The study also notes that incidences of cancer were rare among cane plantation workers who consume brown sugar.

This syrup is also a source of linoleic acid and amino acid, both of which may exert antitumor effects, research suggests. The presence of phenolic compounds also indicates its anti-cancer potential.

Reduces stress

Some of the vitamins found in this molasses, namely B6, can affect metabolism in a variety of ways, including hormone management. By stimulating the release of serotonin in the brain, this sugary treat can help eliminate excess stress hormones and reduce anxiety. The presence of minerals like zinc, potassium, iron and magnesium also helps fight stress by fighting mineral deficiencies. [9]

Helps reduce inflammation

Often recommended for those with joint or chronic pain, blackstrap molasses can help reduce swelling and regulate the body’s immune response.

Relief of premenstrual syndrome

Women suffering from mood swings, cramps, and anxiety can use this syrup in a variety of ways to relieve such symptoms of premenstrual syndrome. It should prove helpful to include as part of your regular diet. [10]

diabetes control

This is an ideal sugar substitute, and while it must be used in moderation, it can prevent some of the blood sugar spikes and drops that people with diabetes experience when consuming regular sugar. A study by the European Journal of Nutrition states that filtered cane molasses concentrate shows promise as an insulin-reducing agent that decreases the load on pancreatic beta cells. [11]

Where to buy Blackstrap molasses?

You can purchase blackstrap molasses at many grocery, gourmet, and health food stores because it’s widely available and easy to make. Herbalists and naturopaths also wear it.

It has also become a staple of certain food production methods, such as B. brown sugar. Blackstrap molasses is available at local health food stores around the world, as well as major retailers and national chains like Walmart.

Blackstrap Molasses Side Effects

While blackstrap molasses is healthier than other forms of sugar, like cane syrup or regular molasses, there are still some potential side effects like diabetes issues, gastrointestinal upset, weight gain, and increased menstrual bleeding that you need to consider. If this is your first time using this substance, try a small amount and watch your body’s reaction before adding more to your daily diet.

We include products that we believe will be useful to our readers. If you make a purchase through links on this site, we may receive a small commission. Here is our process.

Molasses is a sweetener. Some sources claim it’s healthier than sugar. There are different types of molasses, each with slightly different properties. Some people believe that molasses is more beneficial to the body than sugar, but what does the research say? This article takes a close look at molasses, including its types, uses, nutrition, and benefits.

What is molasses? Share on Pinterest Some types of molasses are widely used in baked goods. Molasses is a thick syrup used as a sweetener. It is a by-product of sugar production and comes from crushed sugar cane or sugar beets. First, manufacturers crush sugar cane or sugar beets to extract the juice. Then they boil down the juice to form sugar crystals. Molasses is the thick, brown syrup that’s left after they remove the crystals from the juice. Manufacturers repeat this process several times, and each time a different type of molasses is produced. Molasses is available at health food stores and online. Conclusion: Molasses is a product of the sugar manufacturing process and comes from sugar cane or sugar beets.

Types The different molasses types differ in colour, consistency, taste and sugar content. Light Molasses This is the syrup that results from the first boil. It has the lightest color and the sweetest taste. People often use it in baking. Dark molasses This is the result of the second boil. It’s thicker, darker, and less sweet. People can use it for baking, but it gives food a distinct color and flavor. Blackstrap Molasses This syrup is made by the third boil. It is the thickest and darkest type of molasses and tends to have a bitter taste. Blackstrap molasses is also the most concentrated form and contains the most vitamins and minerals. Because of this, some sources say it has the most health benefits. Unsulfurized and Sulfurized Molasses Molasses labeled as “sulphurized” contains added sulfur dioxide, which acts as a preservative and prevents the molasses from spoiling. Sulphured varieties tend to be less sweet than unsulphured varieties. Other types of producers can also make molasses from sorghum, pomegranates, carob and dates. Bottom Line: There are different types of molasses, including light, dark, and black molasses. Everyone has different characteristics.

Nutrition Unlike refined sugar, molasses contains some vitamins and minerals (1). One tablespoon – 20 grams (g) – molasses contains the following amounts of your Daily Values ​​for each nutrient: Manganese: 13%

Magnesium: 12%

Copper: 11%

Vitamin B-6: 8%

Selenium: 6%

Potassium: 6%

Iron: 5%

Calcium: 3% A tablespoon also contains about 58 calories, all of which come from carbohydrates — mostly sugars. Molasses is not only rich in vitamins and minerals, but also very high in sugar. Sugar in excess can be very harmful to your health. Excess sugar intake has been linked to some of the world’s biggest health problems, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease (2, 3, 4). Nutritionists advise against people eating molasses for the nutrients because their sugar content is so high. The best way to get these nutrients is to eat whole foods. However, if you eat sugar anyway, molasses is probably a healthier alternative. Bottom Line: Molasses contains several nutrients and is quite rich in minerals. However, it’s not the healthiest source of these nutrients because it contains so much sugar.

Potential Benefits Limited research is available on the health effects of molasses. However, researchers have linked the nutrients in the syrup to several health benefits. Bone Health Molasses is a good source of iron, selenium, and copper, all of which help maintain healthy bones (5). The syrup also contains some calcium, which plays an important role in bone health and preventing osteoporosis (6). However, other healthy food sources of these minerals are widely available. These include nuts, seeds and dairy products. People should not rely on molasses as a source of these nutrients. Heart Health Molasses is a decent source of potassium, which promotes healthy blood pressure and helps maintain heart health (7). Although researchers have not studied the effects of molasses on the heart in humans, studies in animals indicate that molasses supplementation may help increase levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL), or “good” cholesterol ( 8th). Healthy HDL cholesterol levels can protect against heart disease and stroke. However, there is no evidence that molasses has the same benefits in humans. Blood Sugar People with poor blood sugar control should limit their intake of all forms of sugar, including molasses. However, molasses may help stabilize blood sugar levels in healthy adults on a high-carb diet. One study found that eating carbohydrates along with foods containing carbohydrates resulted in lower blood sugar and insulin levels than eating the foods alone ( 9Trusted Source ). However, molasses has a similar glycemic index as refined sugar. The glycemic index measures how quickly certain foods raise blood sugar levels. People with diabetes may benefit from using a low-calorie sweetener such as stevia or erythritol. Antioxidants According to research, blackstrap molasses contains more antioxidants than honey and other natural sweeteners, including maple syrup and agave nectar (10). Studies also show that these antioxidants may help protect cells from the oxidative stress associated with cancer and other diseases (11). Bottom Line: Molasses contains several nutrients that offer health benefits. It also contains more antioxidants than other common sweeteners.

Side Effects Molasses is safe for most people when consumed in moderation. While molasses can be a good alternative to refined sugar, eating too much added sugar can have adverse effects. The effects can be particularly harmful for people with diabetes. In addition, molasses can cause digestive problems. Consuming large amounts can cause loose stools or diarrhea. People with irritable bowel syndrome or other forms of digestive disorders should avoid this syrup. Bottom Line: Molasses is usually safe, but consume it in moderation. It may be a good idea for people with diabetes or digestive issues to avoid it.

Molasses vs. Sugar Molasses contains several key nutrients and antioxidants, making it a healthier option than refined sugar. However, it still contains high levels of sugar, which can be harmful if consumed in excess.

I’m no stranger to putting weird things on my body in the name of skincare, but I’ve been very hesitant to incorporate molasses into my beauty routine. What little experience I had with molasses was with meals, and the idea of ​​the gooey, thick substance clogging my pores had me running from the stuff almost forever. The only thing that kept hope alive was the significant source of lactic acid in molasses. As it turns out, there are few ways to get lactic acid naturally… one of which is curdled milk. Still, I wanted to test the skin benefits of lactic acne, so while gooey goo doesn’t exactly sound appetizing, it’s definitely less stomach-wrenching than the alternative. The time I’ve spent researching and experimenting with molasses has gotten me totally over the stickiness factor because my hair is shiny and my pores stay unclogged.

There are several forms of molasses: Blackstrap molasses comes from raw sugar cane, while unsulphured molasses comes from mature sugar cane and is left untreated for preservation, depending on the brand. According to organic health site Organic Facts, molasses balances electrolytes, which may help relieve acne and other skin problems by encouraging new cell growth. Molasses can also help nourish hair strands and follicles. Rich in potassium, copper, calcium and magnesium, molasses also contains anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidants that promote smooth, firm skin.

There’s a lot of anecdotal evidence about molasses topical use, but when I thought about how many pots and utensils I’ve ruined using molasses, I had to see it for myself. Here are five ways I’ve incorporated molasses into my beauty routine.

1. Facial cleanser with molasses and turmeric

I used 1 teaspoon of turmeric, 1/2 cup of filtered water, and 1 ounce of molasses. I boiled the water and added the molasses straight in to loosen the consistency. Once the mixture had cooled, I added my turmeric. With extreme concern, I applied this to makeup-free, damp skin and left it on for a few minutes before rinsing off with warm water. My skin felt incredibly smooth, not dry at all and definitely not sticky! It has become my homemade home remedy for pimples.

2. Hair detangler

According to sources at Healthline, molasses can take the frizz out of your tresses — which makes sense given its thick texture. Dilute the molasses with warm water and place in a spray bottle to spritz on frizzy hair. Make hair damp enough and leave on for about 15 minutes, then rinse well.

3. Menstrual cramps

Many natural health websites tout molasses as a treatment for menstrual cramps. This is supposedly due to the nutrients like iron in molasses, which are thought to reduce cramps by minimizing blood clotting while relaxing muscles. Make a molasses ginger tea and drink it as needed during your monthly flow.

4. Nourishing foot peeling

Molasses is a great addition to your favorite foot scrub because it contains more antioxidants than regular sugar. To make two ounces of scrub, I used about three ounces of raw, organic oatmeal; half an ounce of molasses; two ounces coconut oil; and a pinch of cinnamon. Mix your ingredients together, add water to loosen the consistency to your liking, and transfer to a sealable container. Use your foot scrub as needed to relieve dry, chapped feet.

5. Molasses Hair Mask

Of course I was concerned that this mixture would weigh my precious locks down, but it turns out the best molasses treatment I’ve given myself was this molasses hair mask. I diluted two tablespoons of molasses in half a cup of hot water and stirred until the consistency was completely smooth. Then I added two cups of homemade coconut milk and five drops of lavender essential oil. To apply my mask, I got my hair nice and wet, ran it under warm-hot water for five minutes, and then evenly applied it to my hair. I left my mask on for about 10 minutes and rinsed it off well with warm water.

Thankfully, the molasses was fully submerged in the milk and water and didn’t stick to my tight curls. I was really amazed at how soft my hair was, I almost didn’t condition it. Nearly.

After all my homemade treats, it’s safe to say molasses is my new sugar of choice!

Pictures: Kristin Collins Jackson (6)

Key Difference – Molasses vs. Blackstrap Molasses

Molasses and blackstrap molasses are gummy by-products from the refining of sugar cane or sugar beets into sugar and are in high demand for their sweet taste. Both molasses and blackstrap molasses are low in calories, fiber and fat. However, they are more or less similar in their morphological and chemical characteristics. The main difference between molasses and blackstrap molasses is their manufacturing process. Molasses is made from sugar cane juices and is boiled to concentrate and crystallize the sugar. In contrast, Blackstrap molasses has undergone a triple cooking and sugar extraction process, resulting in it being a more nutritionally dense sweetener than molasses.

What is molasses

Molasses is a thick, dark brown juice obtained from raw sugar during the refining process. It is a by-product of sugar production. It is used as a food ingredient in many recipes and has also been popularized as a healthy sweetener. Molasses can be divided into different groups depending on how many times the syrup has been boiled and what ingredients are in it. These are light and dark molasses, blackstrap molasses, sulphurised and unsulphurised molasses. In turn, these types of molasses are distinguished by the amount of sugar, the method of extraction, the origin and the age of the plant.

What is blackstrap molasses

Blackstrap molasses is a category of molasses that results after the third boil. It is very bitter in taste and thick and dark in color. Due to its bitter taste, it would not be substituted as a substitute for molasses in food formulas. However, blackstrap molasses has more health benefits compared to other types of molasses. In fact, this thick molasses contains the highest levels of iron, vitamins and minerals because it has been most concentrated from the three cooking processes.

Difference between molasses and blackstrap molasses

Molasses and blackstrap molasses can have significantly different properties and uses. These differences may include

definition

Molasses is a thick, brown juice that remains after raw sugar is extracted during the refining process.

Black ribbon molasses is a very thick, dark-colored, bitter-tasting juice that remains after maximum extraction of sugars from the raw product.

categories

Molasses can be divided into light and dark molasses, blackstrap molasses, sulfurized and unsulphurized molasses.

Blackstrap Molasses has no other groups as it is already categorized under Molasses.

stage of cooking

Molasses can be extracted during the first, second or third stage of cooking.

Blackstrap molasses is extracted during the third stage of cooking.

colour

The color of the molasses varies from type to type.

Blackstrap molasses is dark black compared to all other molasses.

taste

The taste of molasses varies from one variety to another.

Blackstrap molasses has a bitter taste compared to all other molasses.

texture

The texture of molasses varies from one species to another.

Blackstrap molasses has a very thick texture compared to all other molasses.

vitamin and mineral content

The vitamin and mineral content of molasses varies from type to type.

Blackstrap molasses has a highly concentrated vitamin and mineral content compared to all other molasses. Blackstrap molasses mainly contains 400 mg calcium, 13 mg iron and 300 mg magnesium per 100 g.

Used

Molasses is used for the following purposes;

Development and additives of food products: use in barbecue sauces, biscuits for baked goods, main raw material in the distillation of rum, use as an iron supplement, source for yeast production and the production of citric acid. Chemical and industrial uses Horticultural sector: Used as a soil conditioner

Blackstrap molasses is used primarily as an ingredient in cattle feed and as a source of ethyl alcohol.

In summary, both molasses and blackstrap molasses are delicious and nutritious sweeteners that are obtained as a by-product of sugar production. But their manufacturing process is different, and they are chemically unrelated. Molasses acts as a natural sweetener, making it an excellent substitute for sugar and good for diabetes.

References:

Curtin, Leo V. Molasses – General Considerations (PDF). Department of Food and Agricultural Sciences and University of Florida, undated. Retrieved May 22, 2014.

Image courtesy:

“Blackstrap Molasses” by Badagnani – Own work, (CC BY 3.0) via Commons Wikimedia

“Baha Pitha” by Mohammed Tawsif Salam – Own work, (CC BY-SA 3.0) via Commons Wikimedia

Blackstrap molasses is a by-product of sugar production. Sugar production begins with boiling sugar cane juice to crystallize the sugar, which is then filtered to separate it from the juice. This leaves a thick, brown liquid called molasses. It is boiled twice more to produce blackstrap, which is even thicker and darker than regular molasses and is characterized by a bitter taste. Because it’s boiled three times, blackstrap molasses is more nutritious than other types of molasses, which explains why it’s recently gained popularity as a dietary supplement. People often use it as a sweetener, spread, or topping for yogurt or oatmeal. While it’s also a popular home remedy for anemia, arthritis, stress, PMS symptoms, and blood sugar spikes, few of these uses are backed by science. Therefore, you may want to know if using blackstrap molasses as a sweetener or dietary supplement is healthy after all. Here are 6 science-backed benefits of blackstrap molasses. Share on Pinterest alpaksoy/Getty Images

1. More Nutritious Than Refined Sugar Blackstrap molasses is a nutrient-dense sugar by-product. Just 1 tablespoon (15mL) provides (1, 2): Calories: 60

60 carbohydrates: 14 grams

14 grams of sugar: 10 grams

10 grams of protein: 1 gram

1 gram of fat: 0 grams

0 grams of iron: 20% of the daily value (DV)

20% of the daily requirement (DV) Calcium: 10% of the daily requirement

10% of DV Magnesium: 10% of DV

10% of DV Potassium: 9% of DV

9% of the DV Vitamin B6: 8% of the DV Blackstrap Molasses consists mainly of sugars. However, unlike refined sugar — which has no nutritional value — blackstrap molasses is high in iron, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and phosphorus. In fact, ounce for ounce, blackstrap molasses contains more iron than eggs, more calcium than milk, and more potassium than any other food (3). In addition, it provides 18 amino acids (1). Summary Unlike refined sugar, blackstrap molasses provides vitamins and minerals like iron, calcium, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, and vitamin B6.

2. May Help Prevent Anemia Blackstrap molasses is a plant-based food rich in iron. As such, it’s often used as an adjunct to treat iron deficiency anemia, a condition caused by malabsorption, or poor dietary intake, of iron (1, 3, 4). It has 2–3.5 times as much iron as light and dark molasses, which are produced after the first and second boils of molasses, respectively ( 4Trusted Source ). Although blackstrap molasses is a source of plant-based iron, which your body doesn’t typically absorb as well as iron from meat, its bioavailability of iron is around 85%, which is considered high (4). The bioavailability of a nutrient represents the fraction that can enter your bloodstream and be active. Blackstrap molasses is often recommended along with other plant-based iron sources like leafy greens, soy products, and legumes (5). Summary Blackstrap molasses is a rich source of plant-based iron, which may help treat iron deficiency anemia.

4. Rich in Antioxidants Molasses is a rich source of antioxidants (1, 3). Antioxidants are compounds that protect the body from free radicals, which are molecules that can damage your cells when present in large amounts. In turn, the presence of too many free radicals can lead to oxidative stress and numerous associated diseases (11). Molasses is particularly high in polyphenol antioxidants and likely contains more polyphenols than other sugar cane products like juice and syrup (12). Research links polyphenol intake to preventing, delaying, or reducing the effects of chronic diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, obesity, and cancer (13, 14). Summary All types of molasses, including blackstrap, are rich sources of antioxidants that help protect against numerous chronic diseases.

5. May Promote Bone Health Calcium is the most abundant mineral in your body and makes up the majority of your bone structure (15). Bones are constantly being rebuilt through a process that requires the regular release and reabsorption of calcium. However, poor calcium intake can lead to a loss of bone mass over time, putting you at risk for osteoporosis — a condition that leads to brittle bones and increases the risk of fractures (15, 16). Research shows that calcium supplements can reduce the risk of osteoporosis. Because blackstrap molasses provides 10% of the DV for this mineral in a single tablespoon (15 mL), its ingestion may promote bone health (3, 5, 15). Summary Blackstrap molasses is a good source of calcium, which may support bone health and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.

6. May Promote Hair Health Blackstrap molasses’ high iron content may promote healthy hair. Hair loss is often associated with vitamin and mineral deficiencies due to their role in hair cell growth and function, although research on the role of iron itself is mixed (17, 18). Research shows that iron deficiency is common in women with hair loss. If you have this condition, iron supplements are often recommended (18). Additionally, iron deficiency can contribute to hair turning gray in childhood and early adulthood. Therefore, supplementing with this mineral may improve signs of premature hair graying (18). Still, specific research on blackstrap molasses is needed. Summary Blackstrap molasses may promote healthy hair due to its high iron content. However, research on iron deficiency and hair loss is conflicting.

Other Claimed Benefits That Are Not Scientifically Backed Blackstrap molasses is reportedly used to treat other ailments. However, keep in mind that scientific evidence does not support any of these uses. If you are looking to treat any of the following conditions, you should consult a doctor rather than prescribe blackstrap molasses for yourself. treatment of arthritis. Blackstrap molasses is touted as an anti-inflammatory that helps relieve joint pain.

Blackstrap molasses is touted as an anti-inflammatory that helps relieve joint pain. blood sugar stabilizer. Proponents claim that blackstrap molasses doesn’t spike your blood sugar because it has a low glycemic index (GI), while others claim it helps lower the GI of high-carb foods. Evidence for both claims is lacking.

Proponents claim that blackstrap molasses doesn’t spike your blood sugar because it has a low glycemic index (GI), while others claim it helps lower the GI of high-carb foods. Evidence for both claims is lacking. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Remedy. Blackstrap molasses’ purportedly low GI is said to support ADHD by preventing blood sugar from spiking, which can lead to loss of focus. Summary You may hear claims that blackstrap molasses can treat arthritis, ADHD, and high blood sugar, but scientific evidence doesn’t support these claims.

Potential Risks Blackstrap molasses contains very high levels of the chemical acrylamide, which can cause cancer ( 19Trusted Source ). Acrylamide forms in foods when sugar and the amino acid asparagine are exposed to certain high-heat cooking methods, such as roasting, frying, and baking (20). Other foods high in acrylamide include breakfast cereals, french fries, potato chips, and cookies (19). While studies suggest that high doses of dietary acrylamides cause cancer in rodents, results from human studies are mixed on whether eating foods high in acrylamide increases cancer risk ( 21Trusted Source ). Numerous studies have found no significant association between the consumption of acrylamide in food and the risk of pancreatic, prostate, breast, ovarian, or endometrial cancer (21). However, other studies have identified possible associations between acrylamide use and an increased risk of melanoma, cancer of the lymphatic system, and all-cause death from cancer (21). The Environmental Protection Agency currently regulates acrylamide levels in drinking water (22). While the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends reducing levels of acrylamide in foods, there is currently no established upper limit for acrylamide intake, nor are there guidelines for the presence of acrylamide in foods (23). Although the FDA doesn’t recommend that you stop eating molasses or other foods high in acrylamide, it may be a good idea to limit your consumption of these foods (20).

Molasses is a sweetener that many people use during the holidays. Credit: Michelle Arnold / EyeEm/EyeEm/GettyImages

Molasses is a sweetener that many people use during the holidays. But it has its fans all year round, although you may be confused as to the difference between blackstrap molasses and unsulphured molasses.

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Tip Blackstrap molasses is thick, dark, and has the lowest sugar concentration of any variety. Unsulphured molasses is pressed from ripe sugar cane and is usually the kind you buy at the supermarket.

What is blackstrap molasses?

Blackstrap molasses is not as sweet as unsulphured molasses, according to the University of Wyoming Extension. It is made from the third and final boiling of sugar cane or beet juice. Sugar cane and beet juice are boiled into a syrup to make sugar crystals, the kind you find in table sugar.

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Once the sugar crystals are removed from the cane or beet syrup, the rest is molasses. This syrup is then boiled, and what’s left after the third and final boil is molasses. Some of the sweetness is removed with each boil, and the remaining blackstrap molasses is thick and dark with a bitter taste.

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That bitter taste has its uses. Pulled pork and baked bean dishes often call for blackstrap molasses. This food ingredient also contains some healthy nutrients. Some of the nutrients in a tablespoon of Golden Barrel Blackstrap Molasses include:

Calcium, 150 milligrams, 12 percent of the daily value (DV)

Iron, 2 milligrams or 11 percent DV

Potassium, 380 milligrams, or 8 percent DV

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What is unsulphured molasses?

Getting back to sugar cane processing, molasses is made from either sugar cane or sugar beet juice that is boiled into syrup. The sugar crystals are removed from the syrup and the remaining brown liquid is boiled until it turns into molasses.

Sometimes molasses, which is made from unripe sugar cane, is treated with sulfur dioxide to preserve it, according to Grandma’s Molasses. This process can leave a chemical taste, notes the University of Wyoming Extension.

Molasses, processed from ripe sugar cane, does not require sulfur dioxide to preserve it. Without the sulfur dioxide, this ingredient retains its rich, light flavor.

Unsulfurized molasses can be light, dark, or black as long as it hasn’t been treated with sulfur dioxide. Most commercially produced molasses are unsulphured, the University of Wyoming points out.

When the sugar cane or beet juice is first boiled, a light, sweet, mild molasses is produced. This light molasses is typically used to make molasses cookies softer and bread crisper. Light, unsulphured molasses is the most commonly sold molasses in the United States.

Read more: How to moisturize a cake after baking

molasses on your menu

You have a choice of light molasses, once cooked, dark molasses, twice cooked, or blackstrap, three times cooked. The sugar content of both light and dark is about 70 percent, according to Serious Eats, while blackstrap bitter molasses is about 45 percent sugar. All the cooking concentrates the mineral content, which is why black molasses has more nutrients than regular sugar, says the Golden Barrel.

Grandma’s Molasses recommends using light molasses to sweeten hot cereals, yogurts, and hot beverages, as well as using it as an ingredient in gingerbread, treacle biscuits, shoofly pies, cakes, and frostings. Dark, or bold, as grannies call the second molasses boil, is good for baked beans or barbecue sauce. Southern Living also suggests using dark molasses in gingerbread if you like a stronger molasses flavor.

Golden Barrel Molasses recommends using blackstrap molasses in baked beans as it enhances flavor and gives the beans their rich, dark color. The Splendid Table has a cake recipe that includes Blackstrap, and Golden Barrel has several Blackstrap recipes on its website.

Serious Eats suggests using a recipe that specifically calls for it before replacing Blackstrap with lighter, sweeter molasses. Not only is it less sweet, but Blackstrap is denser, which changes the moisture content of a recipe. Southern Living advises you never substitute sweet molasses for black molasses without a recipe to guide you.

Read more: The ultimate guide to natural sweeteners

molasses and health

Molasses is often touted as a healthy alternative to sugar. But hold on. Blackstrap molasses has a higher mineral content than regular sugar. Light and dark forms of molasses also contain minerals, according to Golden Barrel, although not as much as Blackstrap. However, as Berkeley Wellness points out, most types of molasses don’t have a lot of nutrients.

Blackstrap contains some nutrients but also has a bitter taste, making it less likely to be called a sweetener, says Berkeley Wellness. The Mayo Clinic reports that the FDA recognizes molasses as a natural sweetener along with honey, maple syrup, fruit juices, and nectars.

Although they may appear healthier, the vitamin and mineral content of natural sweeteners is not significantly different. Use a natural sweetener based on taste rather than health claims and use it sparingly.

Consuming too much molasses, like any other added sweetener, can lead to weight gain. If you can tolerate the bitter taste of blackstrap molasses and use it in place of sugar, reduce your sugar consumption. But the Mayo Clinic recommends using natural sweeteners in moderation.

Some natural wellness websites claim that molasses cures certain ailments. While blackstrap molasses contains iron, calcium, and potassium, the Mayo Clinic notes that these sweeteners should be used in moderation and not to reduce iron or other nutrient deficiencies.

Possible side effects of molasses

There are not many scientific studies on molasses, and those that do exist are limited in scope. In addition, most use human cells rather than individuals as the basis of analysis.

One study analyzed a panel of colon cancer cells isolated from colon cancer patients. The results, published in the June 2016 issue of the International Journal of Molecular Sciences, showed that polyphenols isolated from beet molasses had a toxic effect on colon cancer cells in a laboratory setting. However, this study used an abstract.

Another study, published in the November 2012 issue of the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, also focused on human cells. Beet molasses and cane molasses were found to offer some antioxidant protection to cells. However, more research is needed, particularly in human subjects.

A study published in the December 2016 issue of the European Journal of Nutrition concluded that when added to carbohydrate-containing foods in a meal, filtered cane molasses concentrate helped lower blood sugar and insulin responses in healthy subjects. However, no information was given on the number of people examined.

Note, however, that the glycemic index of molasses is 55, while that of table sugar is 80, according to the University of Wisconsin-Madison. The glycemic index measures how quickly sugar is absorbed into the bloodstream, so this would have an impact on this study.