Coconut sugar is increasing in popularity because it is viewed as a healthier, more ethical alternative to cane sugar. Coconut sugar is made from the sap of cut flowers. It is very labor intensive to produce because, to start, someone has to climb the trees to cut the blossoms. Claims that coconut sugar contains key vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals are true but those claims are based on analysis of 100 gram (3.5 ounce) samples which is not a recommended way to improve nutrient intake and, in addition, provides about 400 calories.
Sugar processed from coconut blossoms is no more or less natural than the sugar that is processed from sugar cane, sugar beets or agave plants. There is no such thing as a healthy sugar. All sugars increase your risk for dental decay, increase blood sugar levels, and contribute to possible weight gain.
