Is Maple Syrup Keto-Friendly?

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The short answer to this question is no, maple syrup is incompatible with a keto diet because it contains a high amount of sugar. Nonetheless, some  people still prefer it as their primary sweetener of choice. 

So what are some alternatives if you follow a low-carb, high-fat diet? In this article, we will take a look at the health facts about maple syrup, and provide you with some keto-friendly options, such as our Skinny Syrups!

What Is Maple Syrup?

Maple syrup has been a staple part of American delicacies since indigenous populations first obtained sap from maple trees in the 1600s. 

Consumer reports show that the natural sweetener contains several nutrients, meaning that one-quarter cup of maple syrup can deliver six percent of your recommended daily dosage of calcium and eleven percent of the recommended amount of zinc. It can also offer one a hefty dose of magnesium and potassium. 

Nonetheless, it is still not a keto-sweetener.

Even though traditional maple syrup holds some nutritional value over refined sugar because of its mineral and antioxidant qualities, its elevated levels of carbs and calories make it unsuitable as a ketogenic-diet sweetener alternative. A single tablespoon of maple syrup contains up to 52 calories, meaning that it exceeds the daily sugar intake recommendations for someone on a Keto diet in just a spoonful!

It’s also important to be mindful of serving sizes. According to a report by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), a standard serving of maple syrup is one-quarter cup. However, certain brands list their servings in terms of teaspoons or tablespoons in an effort to make their products seem like they are low in carbs. So, make sure you do not get fooled by these marketing tactics.

What Is Considered Keto-Friendly?

It is no secret that the practice of low-carb dieting has been on the rise since the Atkins diet first made its way onto the scene in the 1970s. One of the most notable variations of the Atkins program is the Keto diet. 

According to Medical News Today, the only way to reach and maintain a state of ketosis (when your body doesn’t have enough carbohydrates and burns fat for energy) is when your body burns excess fat after depleting itself of carbohydrates. When this happens, the body produces ketones and diverts cells from using carbs as their primary energy source. Instead, the cells use ketones or fats stored in the body as fuel. 

Research has proven that a ketogenic diet helps with weight loss and diabetes management. But did you know that it can also reduce the effects of medical conditions like epilepsy, cancer, and heart disease? These are just a few of the reasons why the keto diet has become so popular.

To adhere to the requirements of a keto diet, you must significantly increase your intake of fats and limit your carbs. The reduction of carbohydrate intake and the increased consumption of fats lead to ketosis. To sustain this state, you’ll also need to make sure you keep any sugar consumption to a bare minimum.

This is where our Skinny Syrups can help, as they are sugar-free, gluten-free, and keto friendly!

Final Thoughts

With the keto diet becoming such a popular dietary choice in America, there are now numerous health-conscious options that consumers can enjoy. But unfortunately, traditional maple syrup is not one of them due to the high sugar content.

So, if you’re looking for a great, sugar-free, keto-friendly option, consider using our Skinny Mixes syrups, as they are ideal for keeping yourself in ketosis and can be used as an excellent replacement for maple syrup.