Jaggery, known as Gud, is prepared from sugarcane juice as a traditional unrefined sugar. It is a natural and viable alternative for sugar. Sugar is manufactured by chemical processes whereas jaggery is obtained from sugarcane juice. It is the safest and the purest form of sugar, and the process of obtaining jaggery does not involve any chemicals. It contains a significant amount of zinc, manganese, selenium, calcium and phosphorus and can help to complement a healthy diet and lifestyle, and is often used as a substitute for sugar in most dishes and beverages. Gud can be eaten on its own, or mixed with various spices to create a healing tonic when treating infections or other health problems. There are various health benefits of jaggery as it provides cure for many diseases that are commonly found these days.
The high iron content of jaggery is what lends it the characteristic dark colour. Consuming jaggery regularly prevents iron deficiency anaemia. The sweetness of jaggery releases feel-good endorphins, which offer relief in pre-menstrual syndrome, depression and anxiety. It also helps relieve associated bloating and water retention. The zinc and selenium present work on enzyme systems of our body that scavenge free radicals. The phenol in jaggery also has powerful antioxidant effects that help the body build resistance. The potassium content in jaggery helps keep a check on blood pressure. It also activates the digestive enzymes and speeds up digestion. That’s why it’s recommended to have some jaggery after a meal.
Being rich in antioxidants and fibre, jaggery helps cleanse and detoxify the system. It is often lauded for its ability to fight effects of pollution. It is particularly beneficial for factory and mine workers, who are constantly surrounded by dust and other pollutants. It effectively cleans the respiratory tracts, lungs, food pipe, stomach and intestines. It pulls out dust and unwanted particles from the body. It also helps in giving relief from constipation, perhaps due to presence of fibre in it.
Jaggery is a more complex form of carbohydrate than plain sugar. So, it is digested and absorbed gradually and releases energy gradually. This provides warmth and energy for a longer period, without harming the internal organs. It consists of moderate amount of calcium, phosphorous and zinc and therefore helps to purify the blood, prevent rheumatic afflictions and treat bile disorder. It is also helpful to cure jaundice.