It's very similar to regular table sugar, although it is less processed and contains minor amounts of nutrients. If you're going to use coconut sugar, use it sparingly. Coconut sugar belongs in the same boat as most sugar alternatives. It's healthier than refined sugar but less healthy than consuming no sugar at all. In terms of coconut as a sugar substitute, coconut palm sugar has a low glycemic index, but the American Diabetes Association notes that you should treat it the same as regular sugar because it contains the same amount of calories and carbs.

BENIFITS

• Low-glycemic index
• rich vitamins and minerals
• free from preservatives
• raw antioxidants
• healthy gut