Molasses Health Benefits, Properties, and Uses

Molasses is a liquid syrup byproduct from the sugar extraction process of sugarcane and sugar beets. As a syrup-type product, molasses is sweet and sugary and dark in color. Depending on how much sugar has been extracted, molasses may be darker or lighter in color and may have a sweeter or less sweet taste.

Molasses is made by boiling down the juice that’s leftover after the sugar has been extracted. When the juice is boiled, it creates crystalized sugar called molasses. Multiple rounds of boiling the juice allows there to be more and more sugar extract. After the third boil, the molasses byproduct is known as blackstrap molasses—a thicker, darker molasses.

Molasses production was a large industry throughout the Caribbean and southern United States. Up until the mid 20th century, molasses was commonly used as a sweetener.

Molasses Health Uses and Health Benefits

Molasses health benefits come from the natural nutrient content that remains in the molasses byproduct after refining. It’s widely considered a healthier alternative to white, refined sugar. 

Molasses contains vitamins and essential minerals like magnesium, calcium and potassium. It’s also rich in antioxidants—substances that combat disease-causing free radicals.

Because it’s such a nutrient-dense sweetener, molasses offers health benefits such as:

• Improved heart health
• Strengthened bones and teeth
• Increased muscle health
• Preventing obesity by promoting weight management
• Boosting hydration and preventing headaches and fatigue

References

1. https://www.livestrong.com/article/498906-does-molasses-contain-potassium/