Yacon Syrup: A Healthy Sugar Substitute??

Yacon syrup is a sweetener derived from the tuberous roots of the yacon plant that is native to the Andes Mountains. Since it is low in calories and contains some digestible sugars such as glucose, fructose, and sucrose, it has received popularity in recent times as an alternative to sugar.

According to nutritionists, Yacon syrup has a low  glycemic index and it also has a high concentration of indigestible inulin, which makes it great for diabetics and people who want to cut back on sugar consumption. It is used in desserts, smoothies, baked goods, sauces, and desserts.

Why you should choose yacon syrup?

Yacon syrup is a good source of fructooligosaccharides (FOS), which is an indigestible polysaccharide consisting of fruit sugar. It is also found in other fruits and vegetables like bananas, onions, garlic, and leeks. Even some grains such as barley and wheat contain FOS. Fructooligosaccharides are essentially prebiotics and great for boosting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and increasing bowel mass. That is why yacon syrup is often recommended to people suffering from constipation or diarrhea.

It’s not just a good sweetener!

A study has also found that the intake of yacon syrup can reduce insulin resistance and promote weight loss by increasing satiety as well as defecation frequency. The fructooligosaccharides present in yacon syrup can also improve calcium absorption, which is essential for older women who are vulnerable to osteoporosis and bone fractures because of the loss of critical bone mass. According to research, yacon syrup can increase the concentration of important minerals such as magnesium and calcium in bones, which is crucial for maintaining bone health and preventing diseases such as osteoporosis.

It also contains pro-biotics!

As mentioned before, the yacon syrup contains probiotics which are great for improving the digestive system and immunity. The fructooligosaccharides stimulate the growth of gut-friendly bacteria and step up the body’s defense against pathogens. Yacon syrup can also improve testosterone levels in the body, which can help treat infertility. Low testosterone levels are also said to increase the risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.

Keep a light hand, though!

Even though yacon syrup has a lot of benefits, some call it a double-edged sword. Consuming more than two teaspoons of it a day may lead to bloating, nausea, and diarrhea as too much of FOS can feed the bad bacteria. Individuals who have SIBO should avoid the yacon syrup, as the FOS it contains is a FODMAP and may feed candida.

It is also claimed that more studies need to be done to assess the effectiveness of yacon syrup as a weight loss supplement, since the studies done so far centered on individuals who were on low-calorie diet plans, and thus weight loss was expected. However, the appetite-suppressing effect of FOS is not disputed as it is has been found to reduce intestinal transit time. Yacon syrup also contains saponins, which should be avoided during pregnancy.

Since there is a lot of confusion surrounding yacon syrup, it is best to consult a nutritionist before consuming it. You can find and book an appointment with top Nutritionists in Faisalabad, Karachi, and Islamabad through oladoc.com. You can also call our helpline at 042-3890-0939 for assistance to find the RIGHT Doctor for your health concerns.