Maple Syrup Is Now Being Considered a ‘One-Stop Shop’ Superfood

Maple syrup has moved up and joined the ranks of blueberries, broccoli, and fish as a ‘one-stop shop’ superfood.

The natural sweetener was found to have 54 compounds. Of those 54 compounds, five are considered to be one-of-a-kind to maple syrup.

The sweet treat is being added to the list of foods containing high antioxidants that boost the immune system. The syrup can also help manage Type 2 diabetes and act as an anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory agent.

Researchers have also found that the syrup can prevent oxidation and aging of the body’s cell. This factor is only known to appear in maple syrup and is not found in other natural sweeteners.

Dr. Navindra Seeram led the research behind the superfood at the University of Rhode Island. Seeram explained that they are still unsure “whether the new compounds contribute to the healthy profile of maple syrup.”

“We do know that the sheer quantity and variety of identified compounds with documented health benefits qualifies maple syrup as a champion food.” Seeram shared with the Daily Mail. “We found a wide variety of polyphenols in maple syrup. We discovered that the polyphenols in maple syrup inhibit enzymes that are involved in the conversion of carbohydrate to sugar. In fact, in preliminary studies, maple syrup had a greater enzyme-inhibiting effect compared to several other healthy plant foods such as berries.”

The superfoods potential was shared during a presentation at the annual meeting of the American Chemical Society in California.

Genevihve Biland, marketing director for the Federation of Quebec Maple Syrup Producers, explained that the syrup has great potential.

“Given its amazing potential for human health and great nutritional value, maple syrup is a natural choice for a healthy lifestyle,” Biland shared.