Is coconut sugar paleo? Is coconut nectar paloe?

The Quick Answer

Yes. Coconut sugar/coconut nectar is paleo.

Why Is Coconut Sugar Paleo/ Why Is Coconut Nectar Paleo?

Coconut sugar (or coconut nectar) is paleo because it’s a sweetener found in nature and is produced from the sap of the coconut palm tree. It is a rich source of potassium, magnesium, zinc, iron, and vitamin B. The coconut sap from which coconut sugar is derived contains sixteen amino acids, which  help build muscle and boost the immune system.

Coconut sugar or nectar is lower on the glycemic index than regular white cane sugar, meaning that it has less of an effect on blood sugar levels than normal sugar. 

Humans have eaten coconuts for a long time and are naturally drawn to their sweetness. It is therefore likely that our caveman ancestors consumed coconut sap when it was available to them.

While regular white cane sugar is very processed, has a big impact on blood sugar and insulin levels, and negatively impacts moods and energy, coconut sugar can be enjoyed in moderate amounts without causing any problems for most people.

Using a small amount of coconut sugar in place of more refined and processed forms of sugar (including white cane sugar, beet sugar, high-fructose corn syrup, agave nectar, brown rice syrup, and barley malt) is a good way to lower the glycemic impact of your diet. However, it is best to consume coconut sugar in moderation.

Why There’s Confusion

Some people don’t consider coconut sugar or nectar paleo because it is sometimes processed or artificial. Certain paleo followers choose not to include any sweeteners in their diet all, because they feel it’s unnecessary and that it can promote cravings for sweet things.

Even when you consume sugar from a natural source, it’s a good idea to keep your portions small, since any form of sugar can still cause energy dips, cravings, headaches, and insulin resistance.

So, Is Coconut Sugar Paleo/ Is Coconut Nectar Paleo?

Yes, coconut sugar or nectar is paleo. It has probably been eaten since Paleolithic times, it’s a natural sweetener derived from coconuts, it’s not known to have any harmful effects on the human body when eaten in moderation, and it offers some health benefits and minerals.

We recommend buying an organic version of coconut sugar or nectar labeled “100% pure coconut sugar”. You can get this both online and in most health food stores. 

How To Know What Is And Isn’t Paleo

Check out Paleo.io, the mobile app that answers the question, “is __ paleo?” Paleo.io comes with the most comprehensive paleo diet food list out there, so no matter which food you’re confused about, you’ll always be able to find out whether or not it’s paleo.

How To Consume Less Sugar

If you are concerned about how much sugar you are consuming, consider doing The 21-Day Sugar Detox. For more information about this program, see our review of The 21-Day Sugar Detox.

Photo credit: Chandrika Nair