Pure Maple Syrup Full of Beneficial Compounds

KINGSTON, R.I.Researchers at the University of Rhode Island have identified 54 beneficial compounds in pure maple syrup from Quebecfive of which have never been seen in natureand suggest the natural sweetener may play a key role in managing type 2 diabetes.

The researchers discovered that phenolics in maple syrup inhibit two carbohydrate hydrolyzing enzymes relevant to type 2 diabetes management. Among the five new compounds is Quebecol, a compound created when a farmer boils off the water in maple sap to get maple syrup.

Quebecol has a unique chemical structure or skeleton never before identified in nature," said lead researcher Navindra Seeram. I believe the process of concentrating the maple sap into maple syrup is what creates Quebecol. There is beneficial and interesting chemistry going on when the boiling process occurs. I believe the heat forms this unique compound."

Seeram added: I continue to say that nature is the best chemist, and that maple syrup is becoming a champion food when it comes to the number and variety of beneficial compounds found in it. Its important to note that in our laboratory research we found that several of these compounds possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which have been shown to fight cancer, diabetes and bacterial illnesses."

The findings were presented at the 241st American Chemical Societys National Meeting in Anaheim, Calif.