Turbinado sugar is produced by pressing fresh sugar cane to remove its nutrient-rich juice. The cane juice that is removed is spun in a turbin, or centrifuge, with the net result of large, golden colored crystals. Turbinado sugar adds a rich flavor to tea and coffee, as well as baked goods. According to turbinado sugar manufacturer Sugar in the Raw, the product contributes a small amount of nutrients, while the refining process that produces white sugar removes these beneficial nutrients.
Basics
One teaspoon of turbinado sugar contains 20 calories, which is equivalent to one packet of the granulated sweetener. About 1 cup, or 100 g of turbinado sugar, contains 399 calories. One cup of the sugar contains 99.8 g of carbohydrates. Turbinado sugar does not provide any fat or protein.
Potassium
One cup of granulated turbinado sugar provides 29 mg of potassium, a mineral that is required for the healthy functioning of cells, tissues and organs. Potassium is classified as an electrolyte, or a compound in the body that conducts electricity. Potassium is essential for proper heart functioning, and also plays an important role in the contraction of skeletal and smooth muscle. Low levels of potassium in the blood are known as hypokalemia and can result from excessive sweating, malnutrition and health issues that prevent the proper absorption of potassium. The Institute of Medicine recommends a daily intake of 4.7 g of potassium for adult men and women.
Calcium
Turbinado sugar also contains a small amount of calcium with 12 mg per 1-cup serving. Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the body and is especially important for developing and maintaining bone and teeth. Calcium is further essential for the proper functioning of the heart, nerves and muscles. The Institute of Medicine advises that adult women consume between 1,000 and 1,200 mg of calcium per day and adult men, 1,000 mg of the mineral per day.
Magnesium
Turbinado sugar is also a source of small amounts of the mineral magnesium with 2 mg in 1 cup. Magnesium is important for the healthy functioning of every organ in the body, particularly the heart, muscles and kidneys. Magnesium also contributes to the growth of teeth and bones as well as the activation of enzymes that are essential for energy production. Magnesium is also important for regulating calcium levels in the body as well as the minerals copper, zinc and potassium and vitamin D. Adult men should consume between 400 and 420 mg of magnesium per day and adult women should consume between 310 and 320 mg of the mineral per day.
References
- LIVESTRONG.COM MyPlate: Sugar in the Raw Turbinado Sugar
- U.S. Department of Agriculture Nutrient Database: Turbinado Sugar
- Wholesome Sweeteners: Organic Turbinado Sugar
- SugarInTheRaw.Com: Frequently Asked Questions
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Potassium
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Calcium
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