Sugarcane, a grass plant that can be found in 36 varieties, has no fats and is a 100 percent natural drink.
India is one of the world's largest producers of sugarcane, after Brazil which is possibly why you'll find almost no companies which offer packaged sugarcane juice.
It can be priced as low as Rs.10 or as high as Rs.40, but it's available throughout the country and not limited to one specific region it is famously called as Ganna juice, Ganne ka ras or Karumbu juice.
Sugarcane juice nutrition
The juice Sugarcane per serving (28.35 grams) contain
- Energy- 26.56 kcal Carbohydrates-27.51 g
- Protein- 0.27 g
- Calcium 11.23 mg
- Iron 0.37 mg
- Potassium 41.96 mg
- Sodium 17.01 mg
Sugarcane juice benefits
1. Sugarcane for instant energy
There’s a reason the benefits of sugarcane juice are so popular. Probably why you see most roadside kiosks selling it in summer months. It’s the best way to energise yourself, and ensure you don’t experience dehydration. The simple sugars in the juice are easily absorbed by the body and are used to replenish sugar levels.
For an instant energy boost, women, you can also take ashwagandha during the day time. It can be had in the form of a churna ball.
2. Sugarcane enhances liver function
Sugarcane juice is said to be one of the best natural treatments for liver-related ailments such as jaundice. Alkaline in nature, sugarcane juice helps maintain the electrolyte balance in the body.
Having sugarcane juice with raisins can increase the liver function. Raisins go the extra mile since it detoxifies the liver very efficiently.
3. Sugarcane can help the body fight cancer
The high concentration of calcium, magnesium, potassium, iron, and manganese makes sugarcane juice alkaline in nature. This – along with the presence of flavonoids – helps the body stave off cancerous cells, especially prostate and breast cancer.
4. Sugarcane eases the digestive system
People suffering from digestive distress would do well to include sugarcane juice in their diet. The potassium in sugarcane juice balances the pH levels in the stomach, facilitates the secretion of digestive juices and keeps the system on track. It also helps prevent stomach infections.
5. Sugarcane benefits for people with diabetes
It has a low glycemic index (GI) so it comes highly recommended for diabetics.
The high sugar content in sugarcane juice may make diabetics wary of consuming this juice. But, in moderation, juicing for diabetics can benefit them– the natural sugar has a low glycemic index, preventing spikes in blood glucose levels.
6. Sugarcane maintains kidney health
Being a natural low-cholesterol, low-sodium food with no saturated fats, sugarcane juice helps keep the kidneys in top shape.
7. Sugarcane alleviates pain associated with STDs & UTIs
Consumed in a diluted form, with lime juice and coconut water, sugarcane juice can help reduce the burning sensation associated with sexually transmitted diseases, urinary tract infections, kidney stones and prostatitis.
8. Sugarcane aids in development of bones and teeth
Back in the day, chewing on a sugarcane stick used to be a regular pastime for young children and adolescents. Apart from keeping them occupied, the calcium-rich sugarcane also ensures proper development of the skeletal system, bones and teeth.
9. Sugarcane keeps bad breath & tooth decay at bay
Experiencing bad breath linked to tooth decay? Sugarcane juice can be your saving grace. Rich in minerals, including calcium and phosphorus, sugarcane juice helps build tooth enamel and strengthen teeth and ensure they are prone to decay. It also overcomes bad breath caused due to the deficiency of these nutrients.
10. Sugarcane can help cure acne
Topical use of sugarcane juice can help reduce and cure skin problems such as acne. Sugarcane juice contains alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) like glycolic acid, which increase cell turnover. They also exfoliate the skin, eliminating chances of acne buildup. Just mix with Fuller’s earth (multani mitti) into a mask-like consistency, apply on the face and neck and leave on for 20 minutes. Wash off with cool water.
11. Sugarcane juice helps induce periods
Having sugarcane juice a week before your period can help induce your periods. It is a natural way to regularize an irregular period cycle.
Sugarcane juice side effects
Policosanol present in sugarcane can cause insomnia, upset stomach, dizziness, headaches (if consumed excessively). So don’t say we didn’t warn you.
You also need to keep in mind that sugar from sugarcane is high in sugar. Those with diabetes need to be weary of this and must consider jaggery for diabetes.
Best time to drink sugarcane juice
Every time you feel like you need to replenish your body and re-hydrate during the summers, grab that glass of chilled sugar cane juice and enjoy its benefits!
