We all know that Vermont maple syrup tastes good, but did you know that maple syrup is also good for you? Maple Syrup contains a large amount of natural minerals such as magnesium, potassium, manganese, and calcium.  It's also a natural source of beneficial antioxidants, just like bananas and broccoli.

Antioxidants are known to lower blood pressure, help prevent cancer, support the immune system, and slow the effects of aging. It's also a better source of some nutrients than those found in apples, bread, or eggs. Not only does it have healthy glycemic qualities, it also contains one of lowest calorie levels and is more nutritious than all other common sweeteners.

Native American people were the first to discover 100% pure maple syrup as a source of energy and nutrition, which is one reason it's considered the original natural sweetener. Researchers have since been documenting that maple syrup has a higher nutritional value than all other common sweeteners. Researchers have also found that pure maple syrup contains numerous phenolic compounds, which are commonly found in plants, and in several agricultural products such as red wine, blueberries, tea, and flax-seed.

Of course, there's nothing like pure Vermont maple syrup when sugaring season is in full swing. Plan a trip to Vermont for these two great events:

• Maple Open House Weekend (March 21-22, 2020): Vermont's sugar makers will open the doors to their sugarhouses, inviting visitors to experience and enjoy this remarkable time of year when pure Vermont maple syrup is made. Whether it’s the sight of steam rising from the sugarhouse, the inviting aroma of boiling sap, or the sweetly divine flavor of syrup as enjoyed in traditional sugar-on-snow, visitors are treated to an experience for the senses!
• Vermont Maple Festival (April 24-26, 2020): A celebration of Vermont’s first agricultural crop of the year: Maple Syrup. The three-day event is held annually in St. Albans Vermont. Come explore Spring in Vermont and the many Maple Exhibits and food demonstrations, Parade, live entertainment for the family, an Antique Show, Craft & Specialty Food Show and so much more.

For more information on these events and to find more fun things to do in Vermont, visit the Vermont.com Calendar of Events.

Now that you know maple syrup is good for you, go ahead and satisfy your sweet tooth! Here are a couple recipes to try:
https://blog.vermont.com/maple-nut-twisted-biscuits/
https://blog.vermont.com/hot-chocolate-and-maple-syrup/

updated: 03/02/20
originally published: 03/16/16