Maple syrup is made from boiling the sap from sugar maple trees, evaporating the water. It takes 40 gallons of sap make one gallon of maple syrup. Maple syrup was first discovered by Native Americans, and has since become a valuable commodity. In 2006, it was an industry valued at $223.2 million worldwide, according to the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture Food & Rural Affairs. The organization also reports that Canada boasts 82 percent of maple syrup production, with the United States producing the rest.
Maple Syrup's Nutritional Value
According to Nutritiondata.com, just one ounce of maple syrup contains 46 percent of the daily value of manganese. The George Mateljan Foundation's Web site explains that manganese is an essential mineral that activates enzymes related to producing energy as well as antioxidant defense against cancer-causing free radicals. This mineral also supports the immune system and aids in the production of sex hormones.
One ounce of maple syrup also contains eight percent of the daily value of zinc, an essential mineral that contains antioxidants and protects the heart. Like manganese, zinc is an immune system booster.
Twenty-eight milligrams of omega-6 fatty acids can be found in one ounce of maple syrup. Omega-6 is an essential fatty acid that is not made in the body and must be consumed. Essential fatty acids benefit the skin and hair, bones, the metabolism, and the reproductive system, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center's Web site. The site also states that a diet that is deficient in essential fatty acids "can lead to reduced growth, a scaly rash called dermatitis, infertility, and lack of ability to fight infection and heal wounds."
Other nutrients found in maple syrup, albeit in small amounts, are calcium, potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, vitamin B5, vitamin B6, riboflavin, niacin, biotin, folic acid, and amino acids.
Additionally, maple syrup is low in saturated fat, cholesterol, and sodium. One ounce of it, however, contains 17 grams of sugar.
How Does Maple Syrup Compare to Other Sweeteners?
According to the Massachusetts Maple Producers Association Web site, there are 50 calories per tablespoon of maple syrup. Compare that to 60 calories per tablespoon of Karo corn syrup, and 60 calories per tablespoon of honey. Molasses wins, though, with 40 calories per tablespoon. In second place is granulated sugar, which, according to Nutritiondata.com, contains 45 calories per tablespoon; however, it possesses no nutritional value. While pancakes and syrup may not be the breakfast of champions, it's a sweet surprise to know that maple syrup contains numerous minerals and vitamins and virtually no fat. It's an all-natural, New England-style treat!
If you liked this article, you might like "Health Benefits of Flax Seeds."
Sources:
Massmaple.org, "Frequently Asked Questions" (accessed January 8, 2010).
Massmaple.org, "Maple History" (accessed January 8, 2010).
Massmaple.org, "Nutritional Information" (accessed January 8, 2010).
Nutritiondata.com, "Nutrition Facts: Sugars, granulated [sucrose]" (accessed January 8, 2010).
Nutritiondata.com, "Nutrition Facts: Syrups, maple" (accessed January 8, 2010).
Omafra.gov.on.ca, "Maple Syrup" (accessed January 8, 2010).
Umm.edu, "Omega-6 fatty acids" (accessed January 8, 2010).
Whfoods.com, "Maple Syrup" (accessed January 8, 2010).
Shannon O'Neill - Shannon O'Neill has an MFA in Nonfiction Writing from the University of New Hampshire. She is currently a reporter for the Boston-based ...
