I recently discovered and proceeded to purchase my first bottle of blackstrap molasses. It seemed like a cruel joke that after purchasing it, I discovered that its health benefits have been known for generations: my grandmother’s generation, using it as a health tonic and treatment for anemia. The minerals on the bottle of blackstrap mollases I bought said in bold: iron, calcium, potassium. The presence of all three of these minerals, along with essential trace minerals, make it a popular energy food. The sugarcane refining process that leads to the by-product, blackstrap molasses, is interesting. Essentially, black strap molasses is the residue left over after refining unrefined sugar cane into white sugar.
Here are just some of the ailments that blackstrap molasses is said to have cured or improved: low iron count, certain cancers, fibroid tumors, iron anemias, sickle cell anemias, acne, arthritis, gray hair, hair loss . There are many testimonials from people who claim that black strap mollases has helped improve symptoms associated with the aforementioned conditions.
It is not considered the best tasting health food. It is usually mixed in a blender with fruits and juices or milk to make it more flavorful. Many develop a taste for it, even using it as a sugar substitute in their morning coffee. Those wishing to increase their iron level usually wash it down with lemon juice, as iron is better absorbed with vitamin C.
It is a great tonic for menstrual symptoms. Consistent use is known to not only shorten the time of menstrual cycles, but also replenish lost iron that can lead to anemia-like symptoms during that time of month, as well as reduce the severity of cramps. Although it is very rich in nutrients, it is very important not to consume too much; this is especially true for men who are more susceptible than women to iron buildup.
The sulfur-free blackstrap molasses I bought came in a plain bottle and was on the bottom shelf at Whole Foods. Who knew that this powerful food could have so many uses! There probably won’t be any Blackstrap mollas in your neighborhood grocery store. You may have to search a central or whole foods market to find it, and there are different forms of black strap mollases; For example, unsulfured versus sulfurized molasses are two options you’ll find, so-called, due to the method of processing sugarcane. Sulfur-free mollase is considered a healthier option.