We all know that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and often, there is no better combination than pancakes and syrup… authentic maple syrup, that is.
The sad reality today, is that millions of Americans believe they are consuming maple syrup when in fact they are consuming a cheap imitation.
If you’re going with a popular household brand like Aunt Jemima you may be surprised to discover that there is actually no maple syrup in it.
| Coombs Family Farms Organic Maple Syrup $11.99/12 fl oz | VS | Aunt Jemima Original Syrup $3.89/24 fl oz |
| Organic Maple Syrup | Corn Syrup | |
| High Fructose Corn Syrup | ||
| Water | ||
| Cellulose Gum | ||
| Caramel Color | ||
| Salt | ||
| Natural & Artificial Flavor | ||
| Sodium Benzoate & Sorbic Acid | ||
| Sodium Hexametaphosphate |
What is sodium hexametaphospate, and why is it in your syrup?! As I read the nutrition label on Aunt Jemima’s Pancake syrup, I couldn’t help but think about the differences between authentic maple syrup and name-brand pancake syrups. It turns out, the differences go far beyond the label.
Research has consistently shown that corn syrup (the main ingredient in most conventional pancake syrups) plays a key role in the development of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (CAFLD), cognitive decline, cancer, obesity and diabetes in many Americans.
Worst of all, corn syrup is highly damaging to the central nervous system as it contains high levels of mercury; which has been consistently correlated to neurological damage & cognitive dysfunction.
The benefits of consuming real maple syrup
Although maple syrup is rarely regarded as a “health food”, the reality is that authentic maple syrup contains properties that are beneficial to one’s health.
Pure maple syrup has an impressive antioxidant profile with potential anticancer abilities. These powerful antioxidants are not only key in preventing disease, but also have the ability to boost the effectiveness of many antibiotics!
Pure maple syrup contains a number of minerals that are key in promoting a strong immune system in your day to day life. It turns out that consuming authentic maple syrup in moderation can actually be beneficial to your health, not detrimental.
Key minerals present in authentic maple syrup:
Manganese: Key player in the production of energy and promoting brain & nerve function
Riboflavin (aka Vitamin B2): Essential in maintaining nervous system health and crucial in facilitating iron absorption
Zinc: Vital in gene expression and immune system cell response
When looking to purchase authentic maple syrup, searching for one that contains the USDA Organic label is the best place to start. Also, make sure to look for a maple syrup with one ingredient – organic maple syrup; this will ensure that your syrup is minimally processed without the use of artificial pesticides and chemicals.
Organic Opulence’s Pick
Coomb’s Family Farms Organic Maple Syrup is a great option for those looking to upgrade their maple syrup. Not only is this maple syrup absolutely delicious, but it is certified organic and certified sustainably-harvested by (QAI) Quality Assurance International. No paraformaldehyde is ever used during tree tapping, ensuring that you are truly getting the best quality syrup made available. You can find it at your local organic grocer, or you can check out ThriveMarket.com for a great price!
Organic Homemade Banana Pancake Recipe
Servings: 2
1 Cup Spelt Flour
1 Egg
1 Teaspoon Baking Powder
Homemade Hemp Milk (1 Tablespoon Hemp Seeds & 1/3 Cup Water)
2 Tablespoons Coconut Oil
TT Vanilla Bean
TT Salt
Topped with: Crushed Walnuts, Hazelnuts & Mint Leaf
(Add water as needed to achieve desired consistency)
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Great article!
Thank you Dr. Kandel! Glad you enjoyed it.