Blackstrap molasses may sound funny when said aloud, but it provides great relief for those suffering from menstrual troubles such as heavy bleeding and uterine fibroids.
In fact, blackstrap molasses should be a staple in every woman’s pantry. But what makes it so darn special? Well for starters, it is rich in blood essential iron.
What is blackstrap molasses?
Now, it is time for a little clarification. Blackstrap molasses is not like the molasses available on supermarket shelves. The supermarket type molasses is a byproduct of sugar cane processing.
Blackstrap molasses, the thick, dark, vitamin rich liquid, is what remains after the third boiling phase of sugar cane syrup. When the sugar is crystallized it becomes table sugar, a refined and nutritionally deficient product.
The vitamins and minerals contained in blackstrap molasses include, but not limited to, iron, copper, and magnesium. In fact, just two teaspoons contain over 10% of one’s daily supply of these minerals. That’s pretty impressive for molasses.
Why should ladies take blackstrap molasses?
Ladies, these minerals are especially important because they play a huge role in balancing hormones and calming uterine muscle tissue. In addition, these minerals replenish the blood lost during menses.
Women suffering from uterine fibroids may also benefit from taking blackstrap molasses. Uterine fibroids affect millions of women and one of the primary symptoms is heavy menstrual bleeding and excessive cramping.
The iron content in this molasses gives the body what it needs to build new blood cells, and the magnesium content is great for calming uterine muscles and controlling excessive blood flow.
For heavy bleeding, it may take about a month before desired changes are seen.
How much should you take?
Take at least one tablespoon a day. Diabetics note that this is not a low glycemic product, depending on the brand; there can be as much as 13 grams of sugar per one tablespoon serving. Try one tablespoon and then test sugar levels to measure its impact, then adjust accordingly.
Blackstrap molasses has a rich flavor that may be a little strong for some. Start by mixing a tablespoon of blackstrap molasses in a cup of hot water. However, it may be better for some to simply eat it off of the spoon.
Blackstrap molasses is available at many health food stores or the natural/organic food section of supermarkets. Get only unsulphured organic blackstrap molasses. It has the most nutritional content and with buying organic there is no worry about pesticides and other chemicals.
Here is a list of the vitamins and minerals contained in blackstrap molasses.
Calcium: Everyone knows calcium is essential for strong, healthy bones and teeth, but it is also needed for proper muscle function and blood clotting.
Magnesium: Important as a muscle relaxant. For women, it can help uterine muscles relax more during menses thereby resulting in a reduced blood flow and reduced cramping.
Copper: Assists in the proper absorption of iron, and helps to normalize heartbeat.
Potassium: Helps uterine and heart muscles to contract better.
Manganese: Helps the body manage sex hormones such as estrogen and progesterone. In addition, it helps absorb calcium, which as stated earlier helps the body clot blood more efficiently.
Iron: This mineral is the most essential on this list for women with low hemoglobin levels. For menstruating women, hemoglobin levels should be between 12.0 to 15.5 grams per deciliter, however; many women in this demographic do not get enough daily amount of iron for this healthy range.
These minerals work synergistically to lessen heavy bleeding, reduce clotting, and build up hemoglobin levels so that the body is strong and functions better.
This interesting sweetener is truly versatile in providing excellent health benefits, especially for women suffering from low iron counts and uterine fibroids. It can be a great addition to any woman’s health care regimen.
Sources:
https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/minerals/health-benefits-of-manganese.html
http://www.earthclinic.com/remedies/molasses.html
http://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/hemoglobin-test/basics/results/prc-20015022