Everyone with a sweet tooth has probably tasted maple syrup since it is a popular sweetener with a great nutritional profile. However, maple syrup is more than a sweetener; it is also packed with nutrients. Since it is 100% natural, it is an ideal alternative to artificial and refined sweeteners. This article will show you some of the best ways to add this healthy but delicious treat to your diet daily.
An Ideal Alternative
Without a doubt, maple syrup is a healthier sweetener compared to refined sugar. Unlike refined sugar, this sweet treat contains minerals and antioxidants that can help improve health when consumed in the right dose. It also has a lower GI, glycemic index, of 54, which means it is not going to cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels. Beyond its use as a healthy alternative to traditional sugar, maple syrup also offers versatility. Below are a few simple but excellent ways to add it to your diet:
Let’s Start With Your Morning Beverage
One of the easiest ways to include maple syrup in your diet is to use it as an alternative to sugar in your morning beverage. Put a small amount of syrup to your cup for a sweet taste and flavor that is 100% natural. Ensure you measure the quantity with a tea or tablespoon rather than pouring it blindly.
Ditch the Sugar in Snacks
Maple syrup can serve as a natural sweetener for homemade snacks. You can use it for snacks like snack bars, trail mix, or even energy balls. These snacks will boost energy without all the added sugar in many traditional snacks.
Bake Away with Maple Syrup
Consider adding maple syrup as a delicious natural sweetener in your oven-baked treats like cookies, cakes, and muffins. Substitute a portion of the sugar in your recipe with maple syrup for added nutrition and a unique flavor.
Marinade Away
Have you ever thought of adding this delicious syrup to your marinade? All you have to do is mix your favorite marinade ingredients with maple syrup for a unique sweet taste. It is an ideal option for chicken, beef, fish, or other meat.
Tired of Boring Salads?
Adding maple syrup as the base of your salad is a great way to add a touch of sweetness to your boring salads without compromising on nutrition. Mix oil, your preferred vinegar, and a dash of this amazing syrup for a tasty but healthy dressing.
Add Some Flavor to Your Vegetables
You can use your maple syrup to add a little sweetness to roasted or steamed vegetables even when you are on a diet. Drizzle a small amount of this sweetener over carrots, eggplants, brocoli, or sweet potatoes before baking or steaming for a delicious and nutritious treat.
Bottom Line
Maple syrup doesn’t just only add natural sweetness to dishes; it also has added nutritional benefits that can improve health in the long-run. From sweetening your morning coffee to making a delicious dinner marinade, there are many ways to incorporate maple syrup into your diet. However, always remember to take your overall calorie intake into account if you are on a calorie-controlled diet.
