Although it may look a bit unappetizing because of its gooey, black tarry-look, blackstrap molasses are actually good for you in more ways than one. Besides, they taste great as well. Here’s what you need to know about the most important benefits of blackstrap molasses.
First off, what is it?
If you’re not sure what blackstrap molasses is, you should know that it’s a by-product of the process of refining sugar cane into sugar. The sugar cane is first mashed then squeezed in a press to release the juice. Once the juice is released, it is boiled to create a syrup. The juice is actually boiled three times in order to create blackstrap molasses. Since the juice is boiled three times, a lot of the sugar is reduced, resulting in a product high in minerals and vitamins such as iron, calcium, magnesium, selenium, potassium, vitamin B6, and manganese.
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The benefits of blackstrap molasses you didn’t know about
Truth be told, blackstrap molasses have a lot of benefits to the health. For one, it has been known to cure (or prevent) anemia. Just mix a tablespoon of blackstrap molasses with a cup of warm water and take this every day. Blackstrap molasses contain an astonishing amount of iron – in fact, you can get 20% of your body’s iron needs with just one tablespoon of blackstrap molasses.
Another benefit of blackstrap molasses is its benefit to the skin. The molasses have a high amount of lactic acid, which promotes the healing of certain skin ailments and conditions. If you want glowing, healthy skin, simply apply the molasses to your face or areas in your body which are affected by inflammation, lesions, cysts, or acne. Let the molasses dry for about 30 minutes, and rinse with water. Do this a few times a week.
If you are having trouble with your blood sugar levels, blackstrap molasses can help as well. Just a single tablespoon of blackstrap molasses with a bowl of oatmeal for breakfast can not only give you a boost in energy – it can also balance your blood sugar levels.
If you’re stressed, you can also include blackstrap molasses in your diet. For best results, whip up a batch of cookies with blackstrap molasses as one of the main ingredients. One of the best blackstrap molasses cookie recipes is ginger blackstrap molasses cookies, with cinnamon, ginger, cloves, coconut oil, and nutmeg.
You can also use blackstrap molasses to boost your immune system, get relief from conditions such as arthritis (a tablespoon of blackstrap molasses mixed with a glass of water – preferably warm – is a great antidote to arthritis pain), reduce inflammation, and give you a boost of energy.
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