Why You Should Try Coconut Sugar

Artificial sugar has become public enemy number one. But what if there was a natural, healthier way to sweeten your recipes (and coffee) without cutting out sugar? Try: Coconut sugar.

Coconut sugar is a natural granulated sweetener derived from coconut palm-tree sap. Unlike table sugar or high-fructose corn syrup, coconut sugar retains its natural brown color and essential nutrients such as iron, zinc, calcium, potassium and a type of fiber called inulin, which is reputed to have less of an impact on blood sugar than regular table sugar. 

Coconut sugar also has a deep flavor similar to caramel or molasses (and surprisingly unlike coconut) and is environmentally friendly: Coconut palms need minimal amounts of water and fuel to grow, and they can produce their sap (coconut sugar) for about 20 years, making them a more sustainable crop than sugar cane or sugar beets.