I have stayed in North India for the most of my life, and I have so hated the summers. The hot, harsh sun on its way to the zenith would seemingly suck the life out of me. Then, a glass of chilled sugarcane juice from the roadside vendor would not only quench my thirst but also invigorate me with renewed energy. Believe me, when I used to have a glass of this magical drink, a soothing calm would spread through my insides and make me feel nice a new person.
Given its popularity to beat the heat, it should come as no surprise that India is one of the leading producers of sugarcane. It is called many different names depending on the local tongue, but it still is the same humble sugarcane bringing peace to every parched soul. Loaded with abundant minerals like calcium, phosphorus, zinc, and potassium, and vitamins like A, B- complex, and C, sugarcane juice also keeps you in top shape.
Sugarcane juice has been found to be effective in curing skin problems like acne.
What You Need
What You Have To Do
Use this remedy at least once a week.
Why Does It Work
Sugarcane juice is a good source of alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) like glycolic acid, which helps to increase cell turnover (1). Also, acne results from blocked skin pores that sugarcane juice helps to remove by exfoliating your skin and thinning down the accumulation of dead cells (2).
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If you are experiencing dehydration, sugarcane juice is one the best sources of instant energy.
What You Need
A glass of sugarcane juice
Why Does It Work
Sugarcane contains simple sugars, or sucrose, that is easily absorbed by your body (3). These sugars are utilized to replenish the lost sugar levels in the body (4).
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Sugarcane juice has been found to be a great addition to a pregnant woman’s diet. It facilitates quicker conceptions and safer pregnancy.
What You Need
A glass of sugarcane juice
Why Does It Work
Sugarcane juice contains trace amounts of folic acid or vitamin B-9 that is known to protect from neural birth defects like Spini Bifida (5). Also, research has discovered that sugarcane juice minimizes ovulating problems in women, thereby increasing chances of conception (6).
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Bad breath is a major cause for social embarrassment. If you have a history of tooth decay leading to bad breath, you should consider sugarcane juice as a home remedy.
Why Does It Work
Sugarcane contains a host of minerals such as calcium and phosphorus that help build your teeth enamel (7). The consistent flow of nutrients prevents decay and strengthens your teeth (8). Also, bad breath is another symptom of nutrient deficiency that sugar cane juice helps counter (9).
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To every growing child, hand a sugarcane stick and you can gladly forget teeth-related problems.
Why Does It Work
Sugarcane is an extremely rich source of calcium which helps build your skeletal strength, including bones and teeth (10), (11).
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Sugarcane juice is known to be extremely beneficial for curing instances of febrile disorders.
Why Does It Work
Febrile disorders are notorious for causing fevers with high temperatures. It causes protein loss. Sugarcane juice is known to replenish this loss of protein (12).
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Sugarcane juice is regarded as one of the best treatments for liver-related sicknesses like jaundice.
What You Need
What You Have To Do
Drink a glass of sugarcane juice mixed with lime, twice every day.
Why Does It Work
Jaundice occurs due to poor functioning of the liver as well as clogged bile ducts. Sugarcane maintains the glucose levels in your body and ensures speedy recovery (13). Also, being alkaline in nature, sugarcane juice helps maintain electrolyte balance in your body, and thus stops your liver from going into overdrive (14).
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If you have been suffering from digestive distress, you should consider including sugarcane juice in your diet for a healthier and stress-free life.
Why Does It Work
Potassium present in sugarcane juice helps balance the pH levels of your stomach and facilitates the secretion of digestive juices (15).
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Sugarcane can also be a comprehensive deterrent to fatal diseases like cancer, especially prostate and breast cancer.
Why Does It Work
Recent research has discovered that the presence of flavonoids in sugarcane inhibits the multiplication of cancerous cells in the mammary glands, thus reducing risks of breast cancer (16) (17).
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Is sugarcane juice good for diabetics? If you think sugarcane juice is a bad choice just because you are suffering from diabetes, then you are wrong. Sugarcane can, in fact, be consumed by people with diabetes, but of course in moderation.
Why Does It Work
Sugarcane contains sucrose that has a low glycemic index. This helps to keep your blood sugar levels under control (18) (19).
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The harvesting of sugarcane usually depends upon the age of the plant. This practice is, however, not the correct method since it does not take into account that the cane might have become over-ripe and aged. Instead, pick sugarcanes that have yellowed and whose leaves are dry. Tap on the mature cane to know if it gives a metallic sound. If it does, know that that cane is perfectly ripe and ready to be cut and consumed. Also, while cutting, make slanting swerves, closer to the root.
When you are purchasing large stalks, it is best to cut them up into smaller pieces so that you can refrigerate them. Make sure you rinse the stalks thoroughly and wait till they are completely dry before keeping them inside the refrigerator. Also, wrap each cut end of the stalks with a plastic wrap and securely fix it with an elastic band. This will prevent moisture loss from the stalks and keep them juicy fresh. If proper care is taken, they will be good to go for two weeks.
So, enjoy the freshness and immense benefits of sugarcane juice this summer. If you know of any more benefits that you can reap from sugarcane juice, do share with us.