(NaturalHealth365)  The first global symposium focused on the health benefits of pure maple syrup was held in early April 2017.  This symposium was part of the 253rd annual American Chemical Society (ACS) meeting in San Francisco, which is a big deal considering that the ACS is the largest scientific society in the world.

The special symposium was called “Chemistry and Biological Effects of Maple Food Products.”  Scientists gathered to share research on maple syrup’s positive effects on inflammation, infection, and the gut microbiome.  Since then, new research has shown that certain aspects of maple syrup may even offer cancer-fighting benefits.  A study published in Oncology Reports discovered that maple syrup contains some substances other than the usual antioxidants, which may help fight colorectal cancer.

Maple syrup is used traditionally by Native populations for its healing properties

Chronic inflammation is at the root of many diseases and conditions, including arthritis, Alzheimer’s disease, and cancer.  It is also a factor in liver disease, metabolic syndrome, and brain health and can upset the balance of the gut microbiome.

Native populations in Canada have used maple syrup for centuries to help fight infections.  Scientists have been studying the unique properties of pure maple syrup closely for over a decade.

Researchers have found that some of its health benefits are linked to a complex carbohydrate called inulin.  This natural fiber acts as a prebiotic, encouraging the growth of positive gut bacteria, which supports immune system functioning.

Key compounds boost the effects of antibiotics

The beneficial compounds in maple syrup are numerous.  Two additional compounds were discovered recently that have antioxidant properties, bringing the known count of beneficial phytonutrients up to 65.  A polyphenolic molecule called Quebecol and an analog called isoquebecol show significant positive effects against inflammation.

Research from McGill University has also found that maple syrup can dramatically boost the antimicrobial effect of antibiotics.  When carbenicillin and ciprofloxacin were administered along with the syrup, up to 90 percent fewer antibiotics could be used with the same healing results.  These results hold tremendous promise for fighting viruses and “superbugs.”

Pure maple syrup also contains key vitamins and minerals that make it a “functional food.”  A maple sap drink formulation was found to bring a symbiotic (both probiotic and prebiotic) benefit to gut flora balance.  This could offer an added benefit for persons taking antibiotics.

Maple syrup is loaded with health-enhancing polyphenols

As you know, gut health and balance are crucial to immune system health.  A healthy immune system can then, in turn, help protect the body against chronic inflammation – which is at the root of many debilitating health conditions.

While some inflammation is part of normal immune system response, chronic inflammation can cause (or make worse) many health problems.  Fortunately, foods rich in polyphenols, like pure maple syrup, help fight off and prevent chronic inflammation.

Examples of other polyphenol-rich foods include lots of fruits and vegetables or green tea.

Maple products are produced in abundance in places like Vermont (in the United States) and Canada, with around 7,500 businesses and 44 million taps in Quebec alone.  As awareness of the anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties spreads, interest and demand worldwide will no doubt increase for this sweet (small) addition to the diet.

Editor’s note: Discover the many natural ways to improve immune system function, own the Immune Defense Summit created by NaturalHealth365 Programs.

Sources for this article:

NIH.gov
ACS.org
Newswire.ca