If you’ve grown up in India or in an Indian household, we bet you’ve had a number of encounters with a glass of the oh-so-healthy “Ganne ka ras”. Summers seemed incomplete without gulping down a full glass of sugarcane juice from the sugarcane wala, right?
It seems that our parents were actually right about the sugarcane juice benefits for health.
There are a number of benefits and uses of sugarcane juice for skin, hair and health as illustrated in our all-inclusive article below:
Sugarcane Juice:
Loaded with abundant carbohydrates, proteins, minerals like calcium, phosphorus, iron, zinc, and potassium, and vitamins
A, B-complex, and C, sugar cane or Ganna is health on a stick. Primarily consumed as sugar cane juice, locals say that a glass of sugar cane juice not only quenches our thirst but also brings peace to every parched soul.
Interesting Facts About Sugarcane:
- Sugarcane is a group of grass species from the Saccharum genus which belongs to Poaceae, the family of true grass. Sugar is extracted from the sugar cane plants that are usually grown for commercial purposes.
- Sugarcane is a perennial plant, which even though being native to Papua New Guinea, has become a part of the crop productions of more than half of the world, including Asia and America
- It grows best in tropical habitats, and reaches up to heights of between 2 to 6 metres (6.5 to 19.7 feet) and a diameter of roughly around 5 centimetres (2 inches).
- Most commercially grown sugarcane are hybrids that is generally a cross between the species Saccharum officinarum and Saccharum spontaneum.
- Sugarcane plants take around 9 to 24 months to grow to maturity, depending on the climate, and they are the raw material that produces 80% of the world’s sugar, while the plants are also used for making ethanol, molasses, bagasse, rum and other such products.
- A large portion of a sugarcane stalk is made of water, while up to 16% can be sugar, and the Fibre content can be up to 16%. Sugarcane juice calories are 269 calories per 100g, which is pretty high.
- The fibers of the sugarcane plant can be woven into mats, used for papermaking purposes and added to other fibers to make fabric.
- Although sugarcane juice calorie content is high, it is good for diabetic patients in moderate consumption.
- The harvesting of sugarcane is accomplished by hand with a special tool or the use of a mechanical harvester before the plant sets flower with its feathery tufts. In many cases the crop is set alight before-hand to eradicate dangerous animals and leaves.
- Sugar produced from sugarcane juice is drawn from portions located in the stalk of the plant and is done through a milling process, which involves crushing, heating, cooling and refining.
Benefits and Uses of Sugarcane Juice for Skin and Hair
1. Cures Acne:
The sugarcane juice benefits when had on a regular basis is effective in curing skin problems like acne. So, if you are prone to acne, try using sugarcane juice face mask as sugarcane juice is a good source of alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) like glycolic acid, which helps to increase cell turnover and help in thinning down the accumulation of dead cells
What all you need:
- Sugarcane juice
- Multani mitti
Directions:
- Mix some multani mitti in to sugarcane juice to form a liquid of medium consistency.
- Apply the mask on your face and neck.
- Leave it on for about 20 minutes.
- Use a wet towel to clean your face and neck.
2. Anti Aging:
Guess what? if you want to delay the signs of aging, you can do so with the help of sugarcane juice. The presence of antioxidants, flavonoids, and phenolic compounds makes sugarcane juice a good option to achieve glowing, soft, and moisturized skin
What all you need:
- Sugarcane juice
Directions:
- Apply sugar cane juice with a cotton ball on your face
- Leave it on for about 20 minutes.
- Use a wet towel to clean your face and neck.
Apply regularly for best results.
3. Reduce Blemishes:
Blemishes giving you sleepless night? No worries! Sugar cane can come to the rescue. The alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) like glycolic acid found in sugarcane helps as a marks reduction agent.
What all you need:
- Sugarcane juice
Directions:
- Apply sugar cane juice with a cotton ball on the affected areas
- Leave it on for about 20 minutes.
- Use a wet towel to clean your face
Apply regularly for best results.
4. Hydrates Skin:
If you feel that your skins natural hydration system is gone for a toss, some sugar juice can definitely make a difference. The natural ingredients in sugar cane juice work wonders in making your skin look and feel supple, hydrated and moisturized.
What all you need:
- Sugarcane juice
Directions:
- Apply sugar cane juice with a cotton ball on the affected areas
- Leave it on overnight.
- Wash off in the morning
5. Support Hair Growth:
One of the best sugarcane juice benefits for hair is it supports hair growth. So, if you’ve recently been suffering from some hair issues, you might want to consider using some sugarcane juice.
What all you need:
- Sugarcane juice
Directions:
- Drinking sugarcane regularly can help promote hair growth and sustenance of good hair texture.
Benefits of Sugarcane Juice for Health:
6. Instant Energy Booster(Re-hydrate your body):
When temperatures are soaring, it is highly likely that you might experience side effects like dehydration. Here sugarcane juice benefits can come to your instant rescue as it is one the best sources of instant energy. Capable of lifting up your spirits and mood within no time, a glass of fresh sugarcane juice leaves you all refreshed and charged. Sugarcane contains simple sugars (sucrose) that are easily absorbed by your body and are utilized to replenish the lost sugar levels in the body.
What all you need:
- A glass of fresh Sugarcane juice
7. Aids People Suffering From Diabetes:
Diabetics should strictly stay away from anything sweet, right? Strangely enough, that might not always be the case. Though sugarcane juice is considered a bad choice when you are suffering from diabetes, it can, in fact, be consumed by people with diabetes, but in moderation. Sugarcane contains sucrose that has a low glycemic index which in turn helps to keep your blood sugar levels in control
What all you need:
- A glass of fresh Sugarcane juice to be consumed on a regular basis
8. Fights Cancer:
This might come as another surprise to you, but sugarcane juice can actually be a comprehensive deterrent to fatal diseases like cancer, especially prostate and breast cancer. Recent research says that the presence of flavonoids in sugarcane inhibits the multiplication of cancerous-cells in the mammary glands, thus reducing risks of breast cancer
What all you need:
- A glass of fresh sugarcane juice to be consumed on a regular basis
9. Boosts Protein Levels:
If you have been hard on your liver for the past few months, we suggest you switch cycles and try some sugar cane juice for a change. The wonderful sugarcane juice helps maintain kidney health and prevents any problems associated with Urinary Tract Infections (UTI). Sugarcane juice is known to increase the protein levels in the body. This prevents many kidney-related diseases like stones, UTI, STDs, and prostatitis. It also relieves the burning sensation that accompanies these disorders
What all you need:
- A glass of fresh Sugarcane juice
- Freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Coconut water
Directions
- Take a glass of sugarcane juice and mix with lemon and coconut water
- Consume twice a day.
10. Fights Infection:
The antioxidants present in sugarcane juice not only help in boosting immunity but also helps in fighting infection. The flavonoid and phenolic compounds present in it works like magic as an anti-inflammatory, antiviral, anti-allergic, anti-tumor agents and therefore prevents body from various diseases accordingly.
What all you need:
- A glass of fresh sugarcane juice
Directions
- Take a glass of sugarcane juice
- Consume once a day.
11. Boosts Immunity System:
Sugarcane is full of essential antioxidants that help in strengthening our natural immune system. These antioxidants have been proven to fight against a number of diseases, including those of the liver and digestive system. These also neutralize the bilirubin levels in the body.
What all you need:
- A glass of fresh sugarcane juice
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12. Helps in Digestion:
If you have been suffering from digestive distress, you might want to consider including sugarcane juice in your diet for a healthier and stress-free life. The potassium present in sugarcane juice helps balance the natural pH levels of your stomach, regulates Digestive System Functioning and facilitates the secretion of digestive juices in appropriate amounts.
13. Treat Constipation:
Morning bowel troubles ruining your day? Consider having a glass of sugarcane juice to do away with those issues. The high potassium level in sugarcane juice provides help in treating the constipation and ensures your system comes back on track. After all, a good day needs a good start.
What all you need:
- A glass of fresh Sugarcane juice
14. Protects Against Tooth Decay and Bad Breath:
Bad breath is a major cause of social embarrassment and if you have a history of tooth decay leading to bad breath, matters might get a little too embarrassing. Thus, you should consider sugarcane juice as a home remedy. Sugarcane contains a number of minerals, such as calcium and phosphorus, which help build your teeth enamel, prevents decay and strengthens your teeth naturally. Also, bad breath might be a symptom of nutrient deficiency that sugarcane juice helps counter.
What all you need:
- A glass of fresh Sugarcane juice
15. Ensures Safe Pregnancy:
Expecting a little one? Sugarcane juice can be a great addition to a pregnant woman’s diet. It facilitates quicker conceptions and a safer pregnancy overall. This amazing juice contains trace amounts of folic acid or vitamin B9 that is known to protect you from neural birth defects like Spina bifida. Also, research says sugarcane juice minimizes ovulating problems in women, thereby increasing chances of conception.
What all you need:
- A glass of fresh Sugarcane juice
16. Facilitates Development Of Bones And Teeth:
As kids, most of us have memories of being handed sugarcane sticks, this was actually done for a reason. Chewing sugarcane directly off the stick is supposed to help children easily combat teeth-related and bone-related problems at later stages in life. Sugarcane is indeed an extremely rich source of calcium that helps build your skeletal strength, including your bones and teeth.
What all you need:
- A sugarcane stick
17. Cures Febrile Disorders:
As per various studies, Sugarcane juice is known to be extremely beneficial for curing instances of febrile disorders which are extremely common in growing kids. Febrile disorders are the root causes behind fevers with high temperatures, causing protein loss, thus making it a risk for the body overall. Sugarcane juice is known to replenish this loss of protein and also prevent febrile diorders.
What all you need:
- A glass of fresh Sugarcane juice
18. Aids Liver Functioning (Treats Jaundice):
Sugarcane juice is regarded as one of the best treatments for liver-related disease such as jaundice. Jaundice occurs due to poor functioning of the liver as well as clogged bile ducts, this is taken care off if you have sugarcane juice on a regular basis. Sugarcane maintains the glucose levels in your body and ensures speedy recovery. It also helps maintain electrolyte balance in your body being alkaline in nature and thus preventing your liver from going into overdrive mode.
What all You Need
- 1 glass of fresh sugarcane juice
- Fresh lime juice
Directions
- Take a glass of sugarcane juice mix with lime
- Drink twice every day.
19. Treats Sore Throat:
If you feel a sudden itching or irritation in your throat, gulping down a glass of sugarcane juice might be a good idea. Vitamin C is a nutrient that is found abundantly in sugarcane juice and is the main reason that makes it a great remedy for a sore throat. Sugarcane juice is also a rich source of essential antioxidants that ward off any viral or bacterial infections
What all you need:
- A glass of fresh Sugarcane juice
- A dash of lime
- Black salt
Directions:
- Mix the sugarcane juice with a pinch of salt and some lime juice
20. Heals Wounds:
Besides boosting your immunity, sugarcane juice also helps in speeding the recovery process of wounds. Containing sucrose that is naturally capable of healing any kind of wound, sugarcane juice helps heal wounds in a small span of time.
What all you need:
- Some sugarcane juice
Directions
- Take some sugarcane juice in a cotton pad
- Dab it over the wound for best results.
21. Strengthens Body Organs:
Studies say that the regular consumption of sugarcane juice helps in making our important organs stronger and function healthier. Since sugarcane juice is full of essential sugar, it helps in strengthening organs like the sensory organs, reproductive organs, and even the brain. Memory lapses anyone?
What all you need:
- A glass of fresh Sugarcane juice
22. Prevents DNA Damage:
Though it may seem like a myth, sugarcane juice can in reality protect you from radiation-induced DNA damage that can directly affect your brain.
Being full of antioxidants, it prevents the oxidative degradation of cellular fats and lipids and controls DNA damage.
What all you need:
- A glass of fresh Sugarcane juice to be consumed on a daily basis
23. Aids Weight Loss:
Studies suggest that sugarcane juice can help you shed a few extra kilos. Sugarcane juice is known to reduce the bad cholesterol in our body which is one the main reason for weight gain. The miracle juice is also high in soluble fibers and thus helps us manage our weight effectively. And we thought sweet things could never make it to our diet plans!
What all you need:
- A glass of fresh Sugarcane juice
- A dash of lime
Directions
- Mix the sugarcane juice with a dash of lime
- Drink regularly
24. Removes Body Toxins:
Detoxification is super popular diet strategy that is known to help your body to internally cope with all the torture you inflict on it every day. Having sugarcane juice on a regular basis helps in cleansing the body of all such harmful toxins and other foreign elements and also boosts our metabolism. This detoxification process gradually even leads to weight loss
What all you need:
- A glass of fresh Sugarcane juice
25. Beneficial For Treating UTI:
- Drink a glass of sugarcane juice added with lime juice and coconut twice a day for treating UTI.
- Sugarcane juice can also relieve one from burning sensation accompanying UTI disorder.
26. Good for Nail Health:
- If you suffer from brittle nails, then you should consume sugarcane juice to fight off the problem.
- The nutrients contained in sugarcane juice can help to keep nails healthy.
27. Increases Muscle Power:
- Drink sugarcane juice two times a day to boost your muscle power.
- It can also increase your glucose levels in your body.
28. Reduces Fever:
- Sugarcane juice can help to treat fever and drop down body temperature.
- Consume sugarcane juice daily to restore protein loss, leading to weakness.
29. Treats Acidity:
- The alkaline nature of sugarcane juice can aid in soothing acidity burns in stomach.
- Drinking the juice allows the body to balance off its acid-base.
30. Prevents heart diseases:
- Sugarcane juice can lower cholesterol levels and triglycerides in your body to keep heart diseases at bay.
- The juice can prevent the buildup of arteries leading to heart diseases.
31. Maintains Kidney Health:
- Drink sugarcane juice daily to maintain kidney health and also prevent kidney related problems such as stones and prostatitis.
32. Prevents from Anemia:
- Sugarcane juice is an excellent solution in fighting against anemia because of its rich content of iron-rich sugar.
- It acts as a sweet substitute and raise iron levels in our body.
33. Rich Source of Antioxidants:
- Sugarcane juice contains rich sources of antioxidants to thwart off bacterial or viral infections.
- It can also prevent the oxidative degradation and control DNA damage.
Nutritional Benefits of Sugarcane Juice:
The nutritional benefits of sugarcane juice are stated as follows:
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How To Select And Store Sugarcane:
Sugarcane sticks are readily available in the market but should be chosen carefully as some of them might have a drained out watery bland flavor compared to others. The safest bet would be choosing the green ones with a slightest yellowish tinge.
To store sugarcane, cut large stalks down to a size that will fit in your refrigerator. Use a slightly sharp knife that is able to cut through the fibrous stalk. Then, peel, cut and wrap each end of the raw sugar cane in plastic wrap or bag secured with a rubber band to prevent moisture loss. Store up to 7 days in your refrigerator.
Sugarcane Juice Recipes:
There are a number of ways in which you can consume sugar cane juice. Some of these are sated as follows:
1. Homemade Sugarcane Juice:
What all you need:
- Sugarcane stalks
How to Make:
- Wash the sugarcane stalk and peal the hard outer skin.
- Chop it into small pieces.
- Squeeze it and extract the juice.
- Serve Fresh
2. Sugarcane And Ginger Slush:
What all you need:
- 5 cups sugarcane juice
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tbsp ginger juice
- 1/2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp salt
How to Make:
- Wash the sugarcane stalk and peal the hard outer skin.
- Chop it into small pieces.
- Add these into the blender with the ginger juice and grind it.
- Squeeze the contents, sieve and extract the juice.
- Pour it into a shallow aluminum container and freeze for 5 hours.
- Blend the contents in a mixer till slushy and serve immediately.
3. Other Juices:
You can mix sugarcane juice with watermelon, passion fruit, mango, etc for adding some zing into your everyday sugarcane juice.
How much Sugarcane Juice should you drink in a day and when?
Having sugarcane juice on daily basis might be a good practice but the consumption completely depends on the individual need and health of your body. For example, a person suffering from jaundice can consume more than one glass a day of sugarcane juice with appropriate advice from the doctor, otherwise the benefits might get reversed and may cause some infections. Generally, one to two cups of sugarcane juice per day is enough for a normal and healthy person. Advisably, sugarcane juice should be consumed in the morning but it is also okay to have the juice sometime during the day. You should avoid having the juice after sunset.
Disadvantages of Sugarcane Juice:
- Like all good things, even sugarcane consumed in excess might cause side effects.
- Sugarcane juice may have a lot of health benefits but also has various health risks because of the unhygienic conditions it is prepared in. Sugarcane juice is considered as the best culture medium for the various microorganisms. That is why it is recommended that you drink only fresh juice that is prepared at home preferably.
- Chagas disease is a deadly disease that is picked up while drinking sugarcane juice from the roadside stalls. Drinking sugarcane juice from such places may also pose grave infection threats as it may be contaminated with the feces of insect vector which may lead to serious health hazards.
Mostly the engines used to crush the sugarcane stalks are treated with a lot of oil or grease to enable easy movement. These oils have harmful effects on human health.
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6 comments
Is it really helpful in weight loss? Actually it doesn’t worked for me. Is there any other diet I have to follow along with it?
Sugarcane juice has properties that help in reducing the bad cholesterol levels in the body, therefore it does help in losing weight. For every weight loss plan, these are the primary remedies (ex: sugarcane juice) that work, you will have to put in your own effort to support these primary remedies by controlling intake of food. You could also set diet plan with the intake of the right foods along with sugar cane juice, bound to make you lose weight.
How come diabetes patients can drink sugarcane juice?
The sugars contained in sugarcane juice is good for diabetics patients. As these sugars have low glycemic index that prevent a steep rise in the blood glucose levels . Although Type-2 diabetes patients should consume the juice in moderation.
How long will freshly pressed sugarcane juice last?
To get the maximum nutrients intake from the juice, it is preferred to consume it within 1hr of pressing. Otherwise, refrigerating it can make it last upto 3 days.