Is Brown Sugar Really Better than White Sugar?

Sugar holds a captivating allure when it comes to our affinity for desserts and milkshakes. However, it is crucial to recognize that sugar is a detrimental option that adversely impacts our bodies in multiple ways. 

The World Health Organization (WHO) conducted a survey in 2019, which revealed that diabetes claimed the lives of approximately 1.5 million individuals worldwide. This condition has evolved into a global factor contributing to various health issues. The unsettling truth about sugar lies in its ability to render the body susceptible to numerous diseases, including high blood pressure, obesity, and heart problems. Therefore, whether it’s brown sugar or white, excessive consumption of either variant can pose serious hazards to one’s well-being.

This article aims to delve into the production process of brown and white sugar, examine their nutritional value and characteristics, discuss their health benefits and risks, and explore potential alternatives. By doing so, it seeks to empower readers to make informed and healthier choices between the two. Thus, before delving further, let’s familiarize ourselves with the process of producing sugar.

The Process 

The manufacturing process of white and brown sugar involves several steps. First, sugar cane or sugar beets are harvested and cleaned. The juice is then extracted and purified through filtration and heating. Lime is added to the juice to remove impurities, and carbon dioxide is bubbled through it to form calcium carbonate precipitates. The juice is further clarified and concentrated through evaporation. Crystallization is induced by seeding the concentrated juice with sugar crystals or using centrifugal force. 

Furthermore, this resulting mixture of sugar crystals and molasses is then separated through spinning in centrifuges. For white sugar, the molasses is removed completely, while for brown sugar, some molasses is retained, giving it a distinctive flavor and color. The sugar crystals are dried, cooled, and packaged for distribution.

Calorie Content

Both brown and white sugar have a similar calorie content. They contain approximately 16 calories per teaspoon (4 grams). However, brown sugar is slightly higher in calories due to its moisture content. The exact calorie content may vary depending on the brand and type of sugar, but the difference between brown and white sugar in terms of calories is generally negligible. 

Nutritional Value of Brown and White Sugar

Brown and white sugar have similar nutritional profiles, primarily consisting of carbohydrates in the form of sucrose. Both types of sugar are low in essential nutrients and do not provide significant amounts of vitamins, minerals, or fiber. They are considered empty calorie sources, meaning they contribute calories without offering substantial nutritional benefits. 

However, brown sugar contains slightly higher amounts of minerals like calcium, iron, and potassium compared to white sugar, primarily due to the presence of molasses. Nonetheless, the quantities of these minerals in brown sugar are generally insignificant and do not contribute significantly to overall nutrient intake. It’s important to note that consuming excessive amounts of either brown or white sugar can have negative health effects and should be limited.

Health Benefits and Risks of White Sugar

Benefits:- 

1. Provides an immense burst of energy– White sugar is a type of carbohydrate, that provides energy to the body. The body breaks down sugar into glucose that can be readily used for energy and to carry out various functions.
2. Improve brain functioning-Glucose is the source of fuel for the brain. The brain is responsible for thinking, learning, and retention. Since the brain is the most energy-demanding organ of the body, it requires a regular supply of glucose and white sugar can fulfil the requirements. So, white sugar in controlled quantities can improve brain functioning. 
3. Elevate Mood– Psychologically, sugar makes a person happy. It is considered a reward for a person. Also, sugar activates the pleasure point of our brain and causes a rush of dopamine. Thus, instantly lifting your mood. 
4. Heal wounds– White sugar paste when applied to a wound, rapidly liquefies, enabling desloughing. It helps in the formation of granulation tissue and negates the reproduction of bacteria. 

Drawbacks:-

1. Increase the chances of heart diseases– Excess consumption of white sugar leads to higher levels of LDL cholesterol. It is also known as bad cholesterol that accumulates and latches to the walls of arteries and causes blockage. This can lead to a heart attack or a stroke. 
2. Obesity– High intake of added sugars, including white sugar, can contribute to weight gain and obesity due to their high caloric content. Consuming sugary foods and beverages frequently can lead to an increased caloric intake without providing substantial nutrients or satiety.
3. Hormonal Imbalance– Excessive intake of sugar can increase blood glucose level in the body and push your pancreas to release more insulin. Excessive insulin production impacts the ovaries and produces more androgen hormones, such as testosterone. It is evident that sugar can disrupt hormones in the body.
4. Sleeplessness–  Sugar is known to reduce the quality of sleep. In order to function properly, an average adult needs 6-7 hours of deep sleep. Proper sleep is also essential for the body’s physical restoration and sugar is a culprit that hinders the process. 
5. Dental Issues: Sugar can contribute to dental cavities and tooth decay. Bacteria in the mouth feed on sugar, producing acids that can erode tooth enamel and lead to oral health problems.

Health Benefits and Risks of Brown Sugar

Benefits:

1. Acts as an instant energy booster– Brown sugar is a simple carbohydrate that breaks down into glucose. Therefore, brown sugar can be added to your food if you feel the need for an instant supply of energy. 
2. Relives from menstrual cramps– Some cultures use brown sugar as a home remedy for easing period cramps. Just boil some water and add a tsp of brown sugar with crushed ginger and tea leaves to soothe the pain. 
3. Exfoliation– Brown sugar is a great physical exfoliant if you wish to have smooth skin. It eliminates dirt and tiny bumps over the skin. 
4. Slightly Higher Mineral Content: Brown sugar contains small amounts of minerals like calcium, potassium, iron, and magnesium, thanks to the presence of molasses. However, the quantities are not significant enough to provide substantial health benefits. It is more advisable to obtain these minerals from other food sources that are richer in nutrients.

Drawbacks:  

1. Irregular heartbeat– A sugary meal can increase your heart rate and make you uneasy. If you have mildly high blood sugar, your symptoms can be serious like palpitation, increased thirst, fatigue, etc. Brown sugar can be the cause of irregular heartbeat. 
2. Elevate blood sugar levels- While brown sugar contains some residual molasses, it still consists primarily of sucrose, which is quickly broken down into glucose and fructose in the body. This can lead to rapid spikes in blood sugar levels, potentially impacting blood sugar control and increasing the risk of developing or exacerbating conditions like type 2 diabetes.
3. Inflammation– Excessive sugar intake stimulates the production of free fatty acids in the liver. When the body digests these fatty acids, it causes inflammation. Poor dietary choices like consumption of excess sugar causes muscle and joint inflammation in the body.  
4. Weaken Bones- Brown Sugar increases the chances of osteoporosis and impairs the formation of bones by reducing osteoblast proliferation. 
5. Nutrient Deficiencies: Consuming excessive amounts of brown sugar can lead to imbalances in the diet and contribute to nutrient deficiencies. Since brown sugar is primarily a source of empty calories, it may displace more nutritious foods in the diet, leading to inadequate intake of essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

Alternatives to Sugar

Now that you know the nutritional content of both White sugar & Brown sugar and looking for a healthier alternative to these. Let us help you finger out a few substitutes for sugar that will preferably be great for your taste buds and your health. You can use stevia, coconut sugar, jaggery, honey and even maple syrup in your food and drinks.

1. Stevia

Stevia is a natural sweetener derived from the leaves of the Stevia rebaudiana plant. It offers several potential benefits, including being a calorie-free alternative to sugar, making it suitable for individuals watching their calorie intake. Stevia does not raise blood sugar levels and may be a suitable option for people with diabetes. Additionally, it has a high sweetness level, requiring smaller quantities compared to sugar. However, some people may find stevia’s taste slightly different or experience a bitter aftertaste. It contains virtually no calories, fat, protein, or carbohydrates.

2. Coconut Sugar

Both healthy and a popular choice among vegans, coconut sugar is a great substitute for sugar. Produced from the sap of coconut palm tree and thus undergoes minimal refining. So, it is organically extracted and then made into a syrup and eventually dried. Unlike Brown Sugar, which has little nutritional value, coconut sugar retains many nutrients like calcium, iron, zinc and potassium.

A teaspoon contains 18 calories, 5 grams of carbohydrate and 5 grams of sugar. It also consists of inulin, a soluble fibre that helps to control post-meal blood sugar spikes.

3. Jaggery

Jaggery, a traditional unrefined sweetener made from sugarcane juice or palm sap, offers several potential benefits. It is rich in iron, making it beneficial for those with iron deficiency or anemia. Jaggery also contains antioxidants and minerals like potassium, calcium, and magnesium. It is known to aid digestion, boost immunity, and provide a sustained release of energy. However, jaggery should still be consumed in moderation due to its high calorie content and potential impact on blood sugar levels, especially for individuals with diabetes or those aiming to manage their weight.

It is a great source of iron, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium. Jaggery or Gur is also an excellent source of antioxidants that helps in reducing oxidative stress. 1 tsp of jaggery consists of 15 calories, 4g of carbohydrates. Nevertheless, you still need to restrain yourself from consuming more than required.

4. Honey

Though some may argue that honey is higher in calories than sugar, as per tablespoon contains 64 calories, 17 grams of carbohydrates and 17 grams of sugar.

It is also true that honey has other nutritional benefits that your normal white sugar doesn’t. Honey possesses anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties. It also has traces of iron, zinc and potassium. It also tastes sweeter than sugar, so to balance out, you may need less if you’re using it as a substitute. 

5. Maple Syrup

Maple syrup is a sweetener, originating in Canada, extracted from the sap of the maple tree and considered extra sweet. Some also praise the nutritional value of maple syrup, even if it is a high-calorie food.

A tablespoon of maple syrup contains 52 calories, 13 grams of carbohydrate and 12 grams of sugar. Moreover, it is also rich in manganese that is essential for healthy bones and other nutrients like iron, copper, zinc, calcium and potassium. Recent research also has found that Maple syrup is great to lower cholesterol levels and help in preventing Alzheimer. 

Summary

Looking for healthier sugar alternatives? Consider stevia, a calorie-free sweetener suitable for diabetics, and coconut sugar, which retains nutrients like calcium and potassium. Jaggery, made from sugarcane or palm sap, is rich in iron and antioxidants. Honey has antimicrobial properties and contains trace minerals. Maple syrup, although high in calories, is rich in manganese and may help lower cholesterol. Remember to consume these substitutes in moderation and adjust quantities to maintain a balanced diet.

HealthifyMe Suggestion

Brown or white sugar – Eating sugar can be done in moderation. That’s the key as most of us love sweet foods and drinks. The problem arises when we eat too much sugar. A teaspoon of sugar will not harm you drastically. It’s only when we go overboard in our daily consumption of sugar. Also know about the hidden sugars in processed foods. Learn to identify sugar on the product food labels. They can be listed as sucrose (table sugar), corn sweetener, high-fructose corn syrup, and fruit-juice concentrates. Other names are nectars, raw sugar, malt syrup, maple syrup, fructose sweeteners, liquid fructose, honey, molasses, or anhydrous dextrose. Stay away from these to follow a healthy lifestyle.

Conclusion

Since Brown and White sugar hardly make any difference in adding any nutritional value to your diet, you can choose a healthier substitute for these. Sugar is equally important to provide you with energy in the form of glucose. However, we sometimes inadvertently consume visible sugar in our teas/ coffees or invisible sugar in processed or baked foods or fizzy drinks. Also, make sure you limit your sugar intake and over the due course, make smart swaps to the healthier alternatives for overall health benefits.

To answer the question, is brown sugar really better than white sugar? No, it isn’t.

Disclaimer: The purpose of this article is just to disperse knowledge and raise awareness. It does not intend to replace medical advice from professionals. For further information please contact our certified nutritionists Here

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Research Sources

1. Diabetes
   https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/diabetes
2. Antioxidant activity, nutritional and physicochemical characteristics, and toxicity of minimally refined brown sugar and other sugars
   https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7500760/
3. Effects of High White and Brown Sugar Consumption on Serum Level of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor, Insulin Resistance, and Body Weight in Albino Rats
   https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7789015/
4. Potency of natural sweetener: Brown sugar
   https://www.researchgate.net/publication/283230120_Potency_of_natural_sweetener_Brown_sugar
5. A comparative study of the effects of white sugar, unrefined sugar and starch on the efficiency of food utilization and thermogenesis
   https://academic.oup.com/ajcn/article-abstract/42/2/214/4691771
6. Stevia, Nature’s Zero-Calorie Sustainable Sweetener
   https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4890837/
7. Effects of stevia on glycemic and lipid profile of type 2 diabetic patients: A randomized controlled trial
   https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7103435/
8. Jaggery: A natural sweetener
   https://www.researchgate.net/publication/344921769_Jaggery_A_natural_sweetener
9. Coconut (Cocos nucifera L.) sap as a potential source of sugar: Antioxidant and nutritional properties
   https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7174220/
10. Maple Syrup Extract (MSX) and Potential Protective Effects
    https://web.uri.edu/maple/maple-syrup-extract-msx-and-potential-protective-effects/