It is one of the well-known sweeteners which have become a favorite for centuries. It is in the form of crystallized sucrose (a combination of fructose and glucose) which is extracted from sugar beets or sugarcane. When the moisture declines, the juice has natural sucrose that starts to crystallize. It attracts moisture being hydroscopic. The baked goods have sugar which helps to maintain moisture and makes them supple as well as soft. White sugar is also known as refined sugar. It has no calories and also lack in minerals and nutrients.

History

In the 18th century, sugar became luxury and due to the profit it made, it was called as White gold. In 100, the sugar was known in England. Due to the suitable climate of Caribbean, the sugar industry was started by American Continents. The first refinery sugar was recognized in 1537 in Germany. In 17th century, the impact of refined sugar was started. Upto 18th century, it was well known and reached high demand in sugar. The consumption of coffee, tea, jams, chocolates, processed food and candies was higher.

Nutritional value

Powdered sugars of 120 grams offers 0.28 g of water,  467 calories, 0.01 g of ash, 119.72 g of carbohydrate, 117.37 g of total sugars and 1.51 g of starch. It also provides 92.09% of carbohydrate, 1.77% of Vitamin B2, 1.27% of selenium, 0.89% of copper, 0.88% of iron, 0.22% of manganese, 0.13% of sodium, 0.22% of manganese, 0.13% of sodium, 0.10% of calcium, 0.09% of zinc and 0.04% of potassium.

Types

1. Coarse Grain

It is the large sugar crystals which are mostly used for to decorate and also sprinkled on top of candy and baked goods.

2. Granulated Sugar

It is also called table sugar. It easily dissolves in liquids and beverages. It is measured easily.

3. Caster Sugar (superfine sugar)

Also called superfine sugar, it is small, crystal in size in comparison to granulated sugar. It is easy to dissolve into mixtures and liquids. It is used to make mousses, meringues and custards.

4. Confectioners’ Sugar

It is the powdered sugar. It is crushed mechanically into a powder form. It dissolves quickly. Mostly it is used in syrups, icings and other desserts.

5. Lump Sugar

The sugar cubes which is pressed into lumps. It is especially used in tea and coffee. The formation of cube formation is held together with sugar syrup.

Health Benefits of White sugar

Along with various disadvantages, it is also loaded with some health benefits. Though one could gain weight but sugar is essential to maintain proper health. The body requires sugar for energy and strength. Some health benefits provided by white sugar are discussed below:

1. Provides energy

Sugar is an excellent source of energy. The sugar converts into glucose when it goes to the blood and is absorbed by cells that help to produce energy. Sugar cubes are the great choice for instant energy. The sport persons carry sugar cubes which help to provide them an instant energy.

2. Lowers blood pressure

The low blood pressure patients should take sugar cubes which assist them to increase the blood pressure instantly. One should consume some sugar if suffered from low blood pressure.

3. Diabetic patients

The sugar level in diabetic patients is fluctuating.  The level of blood sugar decrease when one does not consume food for long period so the body requires raw sugar for reviving itself.

4. Brain functions

The brain could not function properly in the absence of sugar. Blackout is the condition which is occurred due to inadequate supply of sugar to brain. One should consume it in moderate amounts as excessive amounts would be harmful.

5. Treat depression

Sugar helps to cure depression effectively. Chocolates help to increase the mood and make feel good.

6. Heal wounds

Sugar helps to heal wound faster in comparison to medicine. The nasty wounds are healed faster with granulated sugar. But it requires supervision of medical doctor.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pplMNiJm3ZI

Precautions                                                                                                 

• It is associated with obesity, diabetes, dementia, cardiovascular disease, macular degeneration, Alzheimer’s disease, increase blood glucose level, kidney ailments, gout, heart problems, hyperactivity, cancer and cavities.
• Overconsumption might lead to serious health ailments.
• One could experience increase in weight.
• It is addictive.
• High intake of sugar might cause liver failure.

How to Eat         

• It is used to provide sweetness to beverages and baked goods.
• It is used to add flavor in savory dishes.
• It is added to pastries, cakes and muffins.
• The sauces and spreads are also made with sugar.
• It is used to make syrup and candies.
• It helps to maintain color in ketchup.
• Raw potatoes if dipped in sugar provide crispness when fried.

Other Facts        

• It is one of the oldest ingredients.
• In 16th century, the price for a teaspoon of sugar was five dollars in London.
• India is the largest sugar consumer.

White sugar facts

The crystallized sucrose which is extracted from sugar beets or sugarcane. The moisture is removed from the juice by boiling it. When the moisture declines, natural sucrose of juice starts to crystallize which is removed by abandoning the extracts in the structure of molasses. It also absorbs the moisture of air due to which it could have erroneous flavor and clump. The moisture absorbed by the sugar cannot be extracted. The foods we consume have refined sugar which results in serious health problems such as cholesterol and dietary fats.

References:

https://www.tarladalal.com/glossary-sugar-278i

http://www.boldsky.com/health/wellness/2013/health-benefits-sugar-032944.html

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