is sugarcane good for health - #37222
I am really confused about something and need some advice! A few months ago, I started feeling super sluggish and just not myself, you know? My friend suggested I try some natural stuff, and that's when I stumbled upon sugarcane. I always thought it was just a sweet treat, but after doing some reading, I’m like, is sugarcane good for health? I started eating sugarcane regularly—like fresh juice and munching on the stalks—thinking it would give me a boost. My energy did come back a bit, but I've also noticed my stomach feels a bit weird sometimes, like bloated or something. I read somewhere it can help with digestion, but is that actually real? I'm wondering if sugarcane is good for health or if I’m just kidding myself. I even checked my blood sugar levels last week and they were a little high, ugh. Of course, I want to be healthy, but I'm also concerned cause I love sweet stuff. Should I be worried about eating sugarcane often? Like, does it count as added sugar or something? Would love some insights from you all!!!
Shop Now in Our Store


Doctors’ responses
Sugarcane can indeed offer some health benefits, but it’s important to understand how it fits into an Ayurvedic perspective, especially considering your unique constitution, or prakriti, and the symptoms you’ve described.
In Ayurveda, sugarcane juice is known as Ikshu Rasa, which is renowned for its cooling nature and sweet taste, making it particularly beneficial for balancing Pitta type disorders due to its madhura rasa (sweet taste) and sheeta virya (cool potency). It revitalizes the body’s energy and can potentially help in replenishing energy levels, which explains why you might feel a bit of an energy boost. However, it is also kaphavardhaka, meaning it can increase the Kapha dosha, which might lead to the sensation of bloating or heaviness you’ve described.
For someone like you, experiencing bloating and noticing high blood sugar levels, moderation is key. While sugarcane itself isn’t classified as “added sugar,” it is high in natural sugars. Regular consumption can elevate blood glucose levels, especially if consumed in large quantities. To balance this, focus on not overconsuming sugarcane juice and perhaps have it diluted with a bit of water or other natural ingredients like ginger or mint, which aids digestion and counteracts the cooling effect.
Pay attention to your digestive Agni or digestive fire; if you’re experiencing weak digestion or feel bloating afterward, you should reduce intake or consider having it when digestion is stronger, like midday. Moreover, ensure you’re having sugarcane in its natural form or its juice, fresh and unprocessed to gain maximum benefit. Consuming it with meals rather than on an empty stomach can also help balance its effect on your body.
The feeling of heaviness and bloating might also be a sign to incorporate more triphala churna before bed, which can help facilitate digestion and improve overall gastrointestinal health. A pinch of black salt with the juice could offer relief from bloating as well.
Finally, if you’re concerned about your blood sugar levels, it’d be wise to monitor them closely and adjust the consumption of sugarcane accordingly. Ayurveda emphasizes the principle of Satmya or suitability — listen to your body’s needs, and determine what aligns with your unique constitution. Consult with a healthcare provider, particularly for concerns regarding blood sugar levels, to ensure it integrates well with your health goals and lifestyle!

100% Anonymous
600+ certified Ayurvedic experts. No sign-up.
About our doctors
Only qualified ayurvedic doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.
