Answered: Whether palm sugar ‘instantly releases excess body heat’ during summer

The summer heat is exhausting, to say the least. As such, anything that promises relief is welcome. So when we came across ayurvedic practitioner Dr Shri Vidhya Prashanth’s Instagram post listing palm sugar as a remedy to “instantly release excess body heat”, we wanted to know all about it. “Instantly release excess body heat by just adding palm sugar to coconut water,” Dr Shri Vidhya suggested.

According to her, it also helps manage hyperacidity, white discharge, urinary infections, and piles. But, we had to dive deep to understand better.

Is it an effective remedy?

How do you take care of your gut? (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

According to Dt Amreen Shaikh, head dietician, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central, palm sugar is believed to have cooling properties and is used in traditional remedies to help beat the summer heat. “It is a natural sweetener made from the sap of various species of palm trees and is rich in nutrients such as iron, magnesium, and potassium. These minerals can help replenish electrolytes lost through sweating and may contribute to overall hydration,” said Shaikh.

Notably, adequate potassium levels can help mitigate the risk of heat-related issues such as dehydration and heat stroke. “Studies have shown that adequate potassium intake is crucial for maintaining fluid balance, especially in hot climates,” added clinical dietitian Garima Goyal.

Some potential benefits of palm sugar in summer:

*Hydration: Palm sugar can be used in drinks like lemonade, herbal teas, or coconut water to stay hydrated.
*Electrolytes: The minerals in palm sugar can help maintain electrolyte balance, which is crucial during hot weather when sweating is more common.
*Energy: It provides a quick source of energy without the spikes and crashes associated with refined sugar.

The role of palm sugar in managing hyperacidity (acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease, GERD) can be considered from several perspectives based on its nutritional composition and properties such as:

 

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*Alkaline nature  – Palm sugar is often considered to have a mildly alkaline effect on the body, which can help neutralise excess stomach acid. Foods with an alkaline effect can balance the pH levels in the stomach, potentially reducing acid reflux symptoms, Goyal said.

*Anti-inflammatory properties – Palm sugar contains antioxidants that have anti-inflammatory properties. “Chronic inflammation of the esophagus due to acid reflux can be mitigated by these antioxidants, potentially reducing symptoms,” Goyal added.

Expert recco:

Palm sugar should be consumed in moderation, as excessive sugar intake is not advised. “While palm sugar can be part of a refreshing summer diet, it’s important to pair it with other cooling foods and adequate water intake for the best results,” said Shaikh.

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