can jaggery increase weight - #37199
I am really confused about something — I started adding jaggery to my diet because I heard it's healthier than sugar and has like, all these minerals or whatever. But now, I'm not so sure. I’ve been noticing that my weight is creeping up! I used to be pretty fit, but I can’t tell if it’s because of the jaggery or maybe it’s just my lack of exercise since I’ve been super busy with work and life stuff. I know they say jaggery has its benefits, but can jaggery increase weight or is it just me being paranoid? Like, I started using it in my tea, and I even made some energy balls with jaggery for snacks instead of reaching for junk food. But now I’m, like, not fitting into my clothes the same way, and I can't help but think — can jaggery increase weight? I mean, maybe I overdid it? I read somewhere that it’s still sugar at the end of the day. Has anyone else felt this way? How much jaggery is too much? Any thoughts would be great!
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Doctors’ responses
You’re not alone in this confusion. Jaggery is often seen as a healthier alternative to refined sugar because it has minerals like iron, magnesium, and potassium. But, it’s important to remember jaggery is still a form of sugar and contains similar calorie content. If consumed in excess, it can contribute to weight gain just like any other sugar can. Consuming more calories than your body needs, regardless of the source, can lead to weight gain.
In Ayurveda, jaggery is known to have benefits beyond just being a sweetener. It’s known for boosting digestion, improving respiratory health, and helping with anemia, thanks to its iron content. However, moderation is key. The key issue here might be the quantity. Since jaggery is still calorically dense, using it frequently in your tea and snacks like energy balls may indeed add up.
For practical purposes, consider tracking the amount of jaggery you’re using daily. A teaspoon of jaggery can carry roughly 15 grams of sugar and around 60 calories. Compare this with the recommended daily allowance of added sugars. The American Heart Association suggests no more than 100 calories (about 25 grams or 6 teaspoons) for women and 150 calories (about 37.5 grams or 9 teaspoons) for men from sugar.
Combine the awareness of jaggery quantity with balanced diet and regular physical activity. If work and life are keeping you from exercise, perhaps introduce small sessions during breaks even if it’s brisk walking or stretching. Not fitting into your clothes might be more related to a sedentary lifestyle rather than jaggery alone, but adjusting your jaggery intake is worth considering.
Using jaggery mindfully alongside a balanced diet, proper hydration, and regular movement can help maintain your weight. If you’re still concerned about weight gain, consulting with a nutritionist can provide personalized insights.

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