Maple syrup in coffee? Sweet study finds a healthy replacement for sugar

Nutritionally, two tablespoons of maple syrup offer more than just sweetness. It provides:“Both individually and collectively, the study findings are quite significant,” Dr. Marette notes. “The combined decrease of such key risk factors may help to reduce the risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease.” While the study was small and short-term, it opens up exciting possibilities. Dr. Marette is already planning larger studies to explore how maple syrup might impact different groups of people. “Before the study, I would consume pure maple products regularly but not consistently. Today my routine is to replace refined sugars with 2 tablespoons of pure Canadian maple syrup daily,” one study participant says. So, the next time you’re reaching for the sugar, you might want to think about grabbing a bottle of maple syrup instead — your heart will thank you. Paper Summary Methodology This study was a well-structured, randomized, double-blind, controlled crossover trial. It involved 42 adults who were overweight and had mild metabolic issues. Participants substituted 5% of their daily caloric intake from added refined sugars with either maple syrup or an artificial sucrose syrup over two eight-week periods, separated by a four-week break. Key measurements included glucose levels, fat distribution, blood pressure, and gut microbiota changes. The research team ensured dietary consistency by closely monitoring participants’ meals. Key Results The study showed that swapping refined sugar for maple syrup had some health benefits. People who used maple syrup had lower blood sugar spikes during a test, slightly reduced belly fat, and lowered blood pressure compared to those who used refined sugar. Interestingly, maple syrup also appeared to change gut bacteria, reducing harmful types linked to inflammation and boosting beneficial ones. However, maple syrup didn’t significantly affect weight, overall cholesterol, or fat levels. Study Limitations While the findings are promising, the study had some limitations. The number of participants was small, and certain measurements, like liver fat content, couldn’t be fully analyzed due to incomplete data. The study was also short-term, lasting only eight weeks, so it’s unclear if these benefits would continue over a longer period. Finally, since the participants were primarily from a specific demographic group, the results may not apply to everyone. Discussion & Takeaways Replacing just 5% of daily calories from refined sugar with maple syrup might help improve blood sugar control and lower some markers of metabolic health, particularly in those with mild metabolic issues. This suggests that while maple syrup should still be consumed in moderation, it could be a slightly better alternative to refined sugars for people trying to manage their health. Additionally, its impact on gut bacteria is intriguing and warrants further exploration. Funding & Disclosures This research was funded by the Producteurs et Productrices Acéricoles du Québec and the Quebec Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Food. The sponsors had no influence on the study design, data analysis, or reporting. Some researchers received scholarships or funding from other academic institutions and organizations, ensuring robust support for the study. However, the lead researchers disclosed affiliations with entities in related industries, such as a Pfizer Research Chair and Canada Research Chairs.