What Is Cane Sugar And Why Is It Trending?
Also Read: Why Too Much Sugarcane Juice In Summer Can Be Harmful For Your Health
What Is Cane Sugar?
Cane sugar is a type of sucrose that's extracted directly from sugarcane. Once the juice is pressed out of the plant, it is heated, crystallised and dried to form the familiar white or golden grains. It is actually the same chemical compound as the regular refined sugar, but many people view it as a less processed version since cane sugar has a slightly off-white colour. Just like regular sugar, you can use it in everything from desserts to drinks if you run out of the former.
What Are The Benefits Of Cane Sugar Made From Sugarcane
As mentioned above, cane sugar is made directly from sugarcane. Here's how it affects your body:
1. Boosts Energy Instantly
Sugarcane is a natural source of simple carbohydrates, which are quickly digested and absorbed by the body, as per research published in 2015. A small amount of it can provide an almost immediate energy boost for a quick recharge during low blood sugar moments.
2. Packed With Antioxidants
The research points out that the juice derived from sugarcane is packed with antioxidants like polyphenols and flavonoids, which can help combat oxidative stress and may also support overall immune function.
3. May Help Cleanse The Liver
Sugarcane juice might help strengthen your liver and is usually seen as a remedy for jaundice, according to research. When you suffer from jaundice, your skin and eyes develop a yellow pigment that elevates levels of bilirubin. Sugarcane juice is considered a natural detoxifier that can help flush out toxins from your body and help it recover quickly.
4. Can Boost Hair And Skin Health
Sugarcane juice contains alpha-hydroxy acids and AHA, as per research published in 2018, which can help you achieve smoother skin and fight acne. It also helps with dandruff and gives your hair a healthy boost.
How To Use Cane Sugar At Home
You can use cane sugar in several ways at home. Here are some easy ideas for you to incorporate cane sugar into your daily life.
1. Use It To Bake Goods
Photo: Unsplash
Cane sugar gives moisture and structure to your baked goods, especially as compared to artificial sweeteners. It caramelises beautifully, which gives your baked goods golden crusts and gooey centres.
2. Sweeten Your Coffee Or Tea
Skip the artificial sweeteners. A teaspoon of cane sugar dissolves quickly and blends seamlessly into your morning chai or French press brew. It adds sweetness with the artificial aftertaste, which makes it perfect for both hot and iced beverages.
3. Make Cocktail Syrups And Mocktail Mixers
Become a professional bartender at home by making simple syrups using cane sugar. It is clean and has a mellow flavour. A dash of cane sugar syrup can help balance acidity with smooth sweetness.
4. Balance Sauces And Marinades
From spicy barbecue sauces to smooth glazes, a dash of cane sugar can bring out bold flavours. It helps sauces stick better to meats and veggies and gives a glossy finish.
5. Use It In Mithais
Instead of using your good old table sugar, use cane sugar to make desi treats like halwa, kheer, or chikki. Cane sugar adds depth and a slightly earthy tone to your homemade treats that pairs well with cardamom, saffron and other ghee-rich recipes.
6. Make Spice Blends
Cane sugar can make a delicious dry rub for meat, tofu, or even grilled veggies. It balances out heat and adds caramelisation during cooking, which gives them a deeper flavour.
Photo: Unsplash
Does Cane Sugar Taste Better?
Cane sugar tastes just like normal sugar, but its properties make the food taste richer and better. When you use cane sugar in baking or cooking, the dishes will have slightly more depth of flavour as compared to granulated sugar. But overall, the sugars taste very similar since both are byproducts of sugarcane only.
Also Read: 5 Recipes With Sugarcane Juice You Must Try To Beat The Summer Blues
Is Cane Sugar Better Than White Sugar?
As per consultant nutritionist Rupali Datta, cane sugar and white sugar are almost similar. The calorie content of both varieties is the same. Moreover, the metabolic outcomes of both types of sugar are similar. So, no. Cane sugar is not better than white sugar.
What Is The Difference Between Sugar And Cane Sugar?
Although they are both sucrose with the same chemical makeup, cane sugar and regular granulated sugar have one key difference: how they are processed. Cane sugar is made exclusively from sugarcane and is typically less refined, which allows it to retain more of the plant's natural molasses. This gives it a slightly larger crystal size and a subtle, distinctive flavour. Regular granulated sugar can come from either sugarcane or sugar beets and is processed more to remove all molasses, resulting in a neutral flavour and a pure white colour.
Advertisement
For the latest food news, health tips and recipes, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter and YouTube.
Tags:
Cane Sugar
Cane Sugar Uses
Cane Sugar Coke
Show full article
Comments
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
44 minutes ago
- Time of India
White House backs away from IVF coverage mandate despite Trump's campaign pledge
Bengaluru: The White House has no current plans to mandate insurance coverage for in vitro fertilization , despite U.S. President Donald Trump's campaign promise to expand access to fertility treatments, The Washington Post reported on Saturday. President Trump signed an executive order earlier this year directing the government to expand access to IVF and reduce the costs of the popular fertility treatment. White House officials say expanding IVF access remains a priority, but legal constraints prevent mandating coverage without Congressional approval, and no bill is currently planned, the report added. Reuters could not immediately verify this report. The White House did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment.
News18
6 hours ago
- News18
Who Was Dr Kishore Divan? Indian-Origin Anesthesiologist Killed With Family In Tragic US Crash
Four members of an Indian-origin family, including retired anesthesiologist Dr. Kishore Divan, were killed in a car crash in West Virginia Four members of an Indian-origin family, including a well-known retired doctor, were killed in a tragic car crash in the United States while on their way to visit a temple in West Virginia over the weekend. Among the deceased was Kishore Divan, an 89-year-old anesthesiologist who lived and worked in Williamsville, New York. His wife, Asha Divan, and two others—Shailesh Divan and Gita Divan—were also killed in the accident. All four were believed to be in their 80s. Authorities have not yet confirmed the exact relationship between the two couples, although they shared the same surname and appeared together in social media posts. The family was travelling to Prabhupada's Palace of Gold, located in the New Vrindaban community in West Virginia. The temple is a memorial to Srila Prabhupada, the founder of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON). Who Was Dr Kishore Divan? Dr Kishore Divan was a respected medical professional, affiliated with Kaleida Health-Buffalo General Medical Center. According to his professional profiles on WebMD, US News Health, and Doximity, he specialised in anaesthesiology and served the local community for decades. A graduate of Kasturba Medical College, Manipal (Class of 1962), Divan completed his medical residency at the University at Buffalo in 1972. His Facebook profile suggests he studied at Bharda New High School in Mumbai before moving to the US. Friends and members of the local Indian-American community remembered Divan as a dedicated physician and community leader. In a tribute posted on Facebook, Uma Maheswari Krishnan called him a 'super-charged hero" and praised both Divan and his wife Asha for their kindness and involvement in cultural and religious activities. When void spaces surround 😔RIP – Divan a shattered heart & deepest sadness inform the demise… Posted by Uma Maheswari Krishnan on Saturday, August 2, 2025 'Will miss u greatly Kishore uncle, you were always there like a Dad. Buffalo community will miss this super charged Hero( a physician, philanthrapist & community leader )& his sweet spouse. Together, they supported this community with their relentless service, adding value to people & organizations," Krishnan wrote? Divan was also actively involved in the management of Hindu temples in the Western New York area. He was associated with the Hindu Cultural Society of Western New York, where fellow community members appreciated his long-standing commitment and service. view comments First Published: Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
News18
9 hours ago
- News18
Gaza's Hunger Pain: When The Body Starts To Eat Itself Due To Lack Of Food
Last Updated: Gaza's hunger crisis explained: What happens when humans get no food? Why is starvation or malnutrition worse for kids? 'We basically eat our body for nutrition,' says expert In what may be termed as the huge cost of the Israel-Gaza war are the deaths from starvation and malnutrition-related conditions. Gaza's 2.1 million residents have been subjected to relentless bombardment and mass displacement — many forced to flee multiple times, some even as many as 10 times since the conflict began. This instability, coupled with blocked aid, has created conditions of extreme hunger. How children became the casualty of Hamas-Israel war Hamas triggered the war when militants stormed into southern Israel on October 7, 2023, killing around 1,200 people and taking 251 others hostage. Fifty hostages remain in Gaza, but fewer than half are thought to be alive. Israel's military offensive has killed more than 59,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza's Health Ministry. The ministry is part of the Hamas government, but the U.N. and other international organisations see it as the most reliable source of data on casualties. Israel enforced a complete blockade on food and other supplies for 2½ months beginning in March. It said its objective was to increase pressure on Hamas to release dozens of hostages it has held since its attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. Why is the aid not really helping Gazans? Though the flow of aid resumed in May, it is drip fed and is a fraction of what aid organisations say is needed. Aid deliveries have often fallen far below the daily minimum needed to sustain the population—at times dipping to just 10-20 trucks a day, compared to the pre-war average of 500. The result is a humanitarian system that delivers just enough to avoid total collapse, but not enough to prevent widespread hunger, disease, and death. How do Gazans get aid? Why many die even while getting food? Why is there malnutrition despite aid? Most of the food supplies Israel has allowed into Gaza go to the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, an American group backed by Israel. Aid seekers (on foot, by cart, or vehicle) travel up to a designated drop-off point, usually 1.5 km from the distribution site, where they must disembark and proceed on foot carrying supplies. From there, they walk to al Joura—a sandy pit where families wait, often for 12–24 hours, to receive a drone or military 'go" signal to move toward the aid point. Once the signal arrives (supposedly indicating safe passage), they proceed roughly another 1 km through lines of Israeli military checkpoints, sniper positions, drones, and barriers to reach the guarded gate of the distribution center. Witnesses have reported fire near or into al Joura—even before the signal is given—endangering crowds gathered for hours hoping for sustenance. After the signal, thousands of people who have waited for hours (often overnight) in al Joura or nearby dunes begin sprinting toward the distribution gate to ensure they get aid before the supplies run out, often causing stampede. To reach the gate, people must cross 500–1,000 meters of exposed terrain. This area is often surveilled by Israeli drones, surrounded by sniper or observation posts and lined with Israeli army checkpoints or trenches. Despite the 'go signal," witnesses say that gunfire frequently breaks out, either to control the crowd or for unclear reasons. Many are killed or injured in the chaos — shot by live rounds, rubber bullets, or drone-fired projectiles; crushed in crowd surges or while trying to flee; trampled if they fall. Israeli soldiers or GHF staff allow only a small number of people through the final gate. The rest are either turned back or forced to wait again until the next day. Gaza's aid-related deaths According to the United Nations and humanitarian sources, at least 875 people have been killed while trying to access food, water, or medical assistance since late May. The vast majority—over 670 deaths—occurred near Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) distribution centers, primarily in Rafah and Khan Younis. Gaza sees a rise in starvation, malnutrition-related deaths The United Nations World Food Programme has reported that more than one-third of the population has gone for days at a time without food. At least a quarter of Gaza's people are now experiencing what experts describe as 'famine-like conditions." The World Health Organisation has warned that the 'worst-case scenario of famine" is no longer a prediction — it has arrived. Take a look at the numbers: By July 22, 2025, Gaza's Health Ministry reported 101 deaths due to malnutrition and starvation since October 2023, including 80 children. As of July 30, 2025, Anadolu Agency reported 154 cumulative deaths from starvation—89 were children. Reuters on August 1, 2025 confirmed the figure—156 such deaths, including 90 children. UNICEF statement on July 24, 2025 highlighted that child malnutrition deaths rose from 52 to 80 in just a few months. On August 2, 2025, reports from WHO indicated 21 deaths of children under five due to malnutrition in 2025 up to mid July. Moreover, UNICEF estimates that 100,000 women and children are currently suffering from severe malnutrition, while other UN agencies warn that disease is spreading rapidly and health infrastructure has almost completely collapsed. Case study 1: From dawn to dusk, a Gaza family focuses only on finding food The AP reported one family's search for food from dawn to dusk. Every morning, Abeer and Fadi Sobh wake up in their tent in the Gaza Strip to the same question: How will they find food for themselves and their six young children? The couple has three options: Maybe a charity kitchen will be open, and they can get a pot of watery lentils. Or they can try jostling through crowds to get some flour from a passing aid truck. The last resort is begging. If all else fails, they simply don't eat. It happens more and more these days, as hunger saps their energy, strength and hope. The predicament of the Sobhs, who live in a seaside refugee camp west of Gaza City after being displaced multiple times, is the same for families throughout the war-ravaged territory. Aid worker in Gaza says she no longer recognises friends due to hunger Spokesperson for the UN Agency OCHA which coordinates humanitarian aid in Gaza, Olga Cherevko, told CNN's Ben Hunte that she has 'no words' when she sees her friends in Gaza as they are in such a desperate state. 'Situation gone from bad to worse': Paediatric oncologist on starvation in Gaza Dr. Zeena Salman, a pediatric oncologist and founder of the organization HEAL Palestine, told CNN's Wolf Blitzer what's happening in Gaza is 'the decimation of a healthcare system". What happens when human body is deprived of food? 'If you're not eating enough, we have evolved mechanisms for how to stay alive," Dr. Kevin Stephenson, a malnutrition expert at Washington University in St Louis, US, explained, while speaking to National Public Radio (NPR). 'We basically eat our own body for nutrition." This self-consumption unfolds in five overlapping metabolic stages, as the body adapts to survive without external energy sources. When the human body is deprived of food, it enters a progressive state of energy conservation and physical breakdown. Here's a timeline of what typically happens, stage by stage: 0-6 hours: Post-meal/ normal state The body uses glucose from the last meal for energy. Glycogen (stored glucose in liver and muscles) is still available. 60-72 hours: Glycogen depletion and onset of ketosis Glycogen stores run out in 24–48 hours. The body begins breaking down fat stores into ketones (alternative fuel for brain and muscles). Blood sugar levels start to drop slightly. The person may feel intense hunger, irritability, fatigue, headaches, lightheadedness. 3-7 days: Muscle breakdown begins The body begins breaking down muscle protein to get amino acids for energy and essential functions (especially to feed the brain and heart). Ketones become the primary fuel source. Muscle wasting, slowed heart rate, and lowered body temperature occur. Mental clarity may fluctuate: some report clarity, others confusion or disorientation. Immune system starts weakening. 7-21 days: Severe starvation Fat stores become critically low, especially in lean individuals. Severe muscle loss including heart, diaphragm, and other organs. Major symptoms include extreme weakness, loss of coordination, drop in blood pressure and heart rate, difficulty breathing, swelling (edema) from protein deficiency (kwashiorkor-like symptoms). Organ failure risk increases. Cognitive decline: confusion, hallucinations, loss of consciousness. 21-70 days: Fatal starvation. Death usually occurs from cardiac arrest, infection (due to immune collapse), organ failure, dehydration (if no fluids are consumed). Estimated death time: Without food, but with water: 45–70 days Without food and water: 3-10 days, depending on climate and health Can you recover from starvation? Yes, but refeeding must be gradual. Too rapid nutrition reintroduction can cause Refeeding Syndrome, a dangerous shift in fluids and electrolytes that can be fatal. Specific starvation conditions in children like in Gaza Children deteriorate much faster under starvation. Their bodies need a steady stream of nutrients for growth, but their energy reserves are small. UNICEF estimates that 12.2 million children worldwide faced severe malnutrition last year, with South Asia being the hardest-hit region. Gaza is now adding dramatically to those figures. Children, especially under 5, are more vulnerable: Marasmus: Severe calorie deficiency which leads to emaciation Kwashiorkor: Protein deficiency leads to edema, skin/hair changes, liver enlargement Symptoms include: Sunken eyes, protruding ribs Thin limbs but swollen belly Apathy or constant crying Skin peeling, hair discoloration Psychological effects Irritability, apathy, and depression Impaired concentration and memory top videos View all Hallucinations and emotional numbness in extreme stages With Agency Inputs About the Author Manjiri Joshi At the news desk for 17 years, the story of her life has revolved around finding pun, facts while reporting, on radio, heading a daily newspaper desk, teaching mass media students to now editing special copies ...Read More Get Latest Updates on Movies, Breaking News On India, World, Live Cricket Scores, And Stock Market Updates. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated! tags : gaza Gaza aid gaza crisis news18 specials view comments Location : New Delhi, India, India First Published: August 03, 2025, 12:46 IST News explainers Gaza's Hunger Pain: When The Body Starts To Eat Itself Due To Lack Of Food Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
