Note: This was resurrected from Tumblr thanks to Google cache and was originally posted on March 19, 2015.
I have PCOS, which is very closely related to diabetes. As a matter of fact, it often turns into diabetes, so I often have to watch what I put into my body. I try to stay away from sugar as much as possible because it spikes my insulin and glucose levels, thus making my PCOS symptoms worse. I don’t want that.
I have been using artificial sweeteners for some years now (maybe 7-8). Although they don’t raise insulin or glucose levels, they still have their own dangerous effects. So I’ve been trying to stay away from those as well.
If you’re in the same boat (want to stay away from sugar and artificial sweeteners), you may want to consider Yacon syrup. I had never heard of it until recently, but it’s a very diabetes-friendly sweetener that can be a substitute for sugar, honey, and maple syrup. Additionally, it also helps to boost your metabolism, which in turn will help you lose weight.
Disclosure: This post is sponsored by SimpleHealth. I received this product complimentary in exchange for my honest, unbiased review. All opinions are 100% mine.
About Yacon Syrup
Yacón syrup is a sweetening agent extracted from the tuberous roots of the yacón plant indigenous to the Andes mountains. In Peru, people eat yacón because of its nutritional properties—few calories and low sugar levels. In Bolivia, yacón roots are eaten by people with diabetes or other digestive and renal disorders. In Brazil, the dried leaves are used to make yacón tea, said to be antidiabetic.
The syrup contains up to 50% of fructooligosaccharides (FOS). The consumption of FOS does not increase blood glucose; however, the root consists of primarily free fructose at about 35%.
"In a study by Yoshida et al. (2002), an enzyme solution of yacón was determined to be a better antioxidant than enzyme solutions of potato, mushroom, eggplant, and edible burdock. In a study by Genta et al., it was shown that a daily intake of yacón syrup produced a significant decrease in body weight, waist circumference, and body mass index when given to obese pre-menopausal women (source)."
My Experience With SimpleHealth's Yacon Syrup
First things first, since Yacon syrup is a sweetener, you probably want to know if it’s really sweet? Well, yes it is! It definitely puts me in the mind of molasses or maple syrup and has a similar consistency - although a little more watery.
Compared to artificial sweeteners, you don’t need to use nearly as much Yacon syrup to get the same amount of sweetness. I have used it in tea, smoothies, and even on pancakes. It has worked great on all occasions.
SimpleHealth’s Yacon syrup is tasty, vegan, has a low GI index level, and is gluten-free; so, everyone can benefit from using it. Even if you’re not trying to watch what you eat, it’s an overall good ingredient that can be used for many things.
Another thing that intrigued me about the syrup is that it’s supposed to help reduce constipation and digestive distress due to its high soluble fiber content. Well, I have GERD and it causes me a world of issues. So far, I have definitely been more regular since using it.
Lastly, it’s said to increase immunity and brain function, decreases inflammation, (since it’s high in prebiotics), and increase absorption of dietary minerals.
Final Thoughts
Who would have thought a sugar substitute could have so many health benefits? I sure didn’t think it was possible! I’m in love with this new alternative sweetener and I’m happy that it can help with so many issues I have. It doesn’t have an aftertaste and I can use it in many different ways.
What more can I ask for? Yacon syrup is a sure keeper!
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