16. Blackstrap Molasses: A Natural Sweetener with a Surprising Iron Boost
Blackstrap molasses is a type of sugar that’s high in iron. One tablespoon provides around 0.9mg of iron. This might not seem like a lot, but given that it’s a sweetener, it’s quite impressive. It’s a sweet way to add a little extra iron to your diet.
But iron isn’t the only mineral you’ll find in blackstrap molasses. It’s also rich in calcium, magnesium, and potassium. Plus, it provides a decent amount of vitamin B6, a nutrient that’s essential for brain health and metabolism.
Blackstrap molasses is a byproduct of the sugar-making process. It’s what’s left after the sugar cane plant’s juice is boiled and the sugar is extracted. As a result, it contains many of the nutrients originally found in the sugar cane plant, making it a more nutritious choice than other sweeteners.
You can use blackstrap molasses in place of other sweeteners in a variety of dishes. It has a unique, robust flavor that lends itself well to baking, particularly in gingerbread cookies. You can also use it to sweeten oatmeal or tea, or in marinades for a rich, deep flavor.
In summary, blackstrap molasses is a sweet source of iron and several other nutrients. Its unique flavor and versatility in the kitchen make it an excellent choice for anyone looking to boost their iron intake in a sweet way. (16)
