Excellent Health Benefits Of Sugarcane Juice
By Dr. Malavika Athavale +2 more
Medically reviewed by Dr. Malavika Athavale
Last updated: Apr 25, 2025 Published on: Feb 9, 2022
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By Dr. Malavika Athavale +2 more
Table of Contents
A hot summer season paired with chilled sugarcane juice can be an excellent combination to enjoy. This delicious drink is not only relishing but also nourishing. According to traditional Indian medicine, sugarcane juice is considered healthy as it contains not only sugar for energy but also water, fibre, and other valuable nutrients1.
For non-diabetics, it may serve as a healthy alternative to artificially flavoured beverages. However, individuals with diabetes or prediabetes are advised to avoid sugarcane juice, as it can cause a sudden spike in blood sugar levels.
Sugarcane, scientifically known as Saccharum officinarum from the Poaceae family, is grown in subtropical and tropical regions. It is one of the most widely cultivated crops globally, with an annual production of around 1.8 billion tons, making it the world’s largest crop by volume. India is one of the leading producers of sugarcane, second only to Brazil. Different varieties of sugarcane grow throughout the year in various parts of India, including Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Goa, Pondicherry, and Kerala2.
Sugarcane comes with abundant nutrients which include:
Sugarcane juice satisfies the taste buds and quenches thirst. We love to drink sugarcane juice, but we may not realise its health benefits. Here are some of the health benefits of sugarcane:
Sugarcane is a natural source of sucrose which is the powerhouse for energy. It helps normalise the release of glucose in the body to regain lost sugar levels. Sugarcane juice hydrates the body and reduces fatigue caused due to hot weather. This juice has beneficial nutrients such as, carbohydrates, proteins, and minerals that help with dehydration.
According to Ayurveda, sugarcane is a healthy beverage for people with jaundice as it helps to fight weakness3.
Make sure to only consume sugarcane juice that is prepared in a hygienic setting. Consult a doctor to include it in your diet if you have a liver disorder, as this may be contraindicated in some patients.
In my experience, I have observed that the aqueous extract of dried stems of sugarcane might possess antihepatotoxic activity. This means it has the potential to protect the liver from toxic damage. It is believed that the extract may work by enhancing the liver’s detoxification processes, reducing oxidative stress, or promoting the regeneration of liver cells3.
Dr. Smita Barode, B.A.M.S, M.S.
Sugarcane juice has excellent diuretic properties that help eliminate toxins and infections from your body. Drinking sugarcane juice may help people with urinary tract infections (UTI) and kidney stones4.
You may find it beneficial to drink coconut water and lemon with sugarcane juice two times a day if you experience burning sensations caused by UTI.
Sugarcane juice works as a digestive tonic in situations of digestion distress4. It is high in potassium which helps balance the pH levels in the stomach. Sugarcane juice helps the secretion of digestive juices as it contains fibres and can help clear the digestive tract in case of constipation.
Sugarcane juice contains antioxidants, phenolic acid, and flavonoids. It helps in moisturising the skin and making it soft and glowing from the inside. Sugarcane also contains glycolic acid which may help to maintain the radiance of the skin too5.
Sugarcane is a good source of vitamin C and antioxidants that may boost your immunity. Presence of flavonoids – may help the body stave off cancerous cells, especially prostate and breast cancer. Sugarcane juice works excellent for some digestive and liver problems4.
High fever presents with a lot of weakness and body pains. Sugarcane juice helps replenish the loss of water and glucose and may speed up recovery1.
Based on my experience, I have observed that ethanol extracts of fresh leaves and shoots of sugarcane might exhibit analgesic properties. It is believed that certain compounds present in the extracts interact with pain receptors or modulate pain signalling pathways in the body, thereby reducing pain sensation3.
Dr. Rajeev Singh, BAMS
Though there are several advantages to having sugarcane juice, handling sugarcane may cause allergies. This is because of the pollens in sugarcane which gets transported by wind to cause allergic rhinitis. Allergic rhinitis may cause symptoms like excess sneezing, nose congestion, swelling of the mucous membrane, etc6. These side effects to sugarcane are usually rare and only occur near sugarcane farms. However, if you experience such allergic reactions, consult your doctor and get the necessary treatment.
The potential uses of eating sugarcane might be countless. However, eating in larger quantities is not recommended. Therefore, taking the following precautions is necessary1,6:
Did you know that India is the second largest producer of sugarcane in the world, right after Brazil? It’s incredible to think about the vast quantities of sugarcane grown in India, contributing to the global sugar industry and helping us satisfy our sweet tooth cravings3!
Dr. Siddharth Gupta, B.A.M.S, M.D (Ayu)
More research is needed to study the interactions between sugarcane and other drugs. Therefore, it is better to consult with a doctor to avoid possible interactions before having sugarcane with medicines.
Sugarcane juice can offer health benefits when consumed in moderation. It’s rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals like iron and calcium, which can help boost immunity, aid digestion, and provide a natural source of energy. However, it’s important to be mindful of sugar content and consume it as part of a balanced diet.
Sugarcane juice, like other sugary beverages, can contribute to the risk of developing type 2 diabetes if consumed excessively. Its high sugar content can lead to spikes in blood sugar levels, potentially increasing insulin resistance over time. Moderation is key, and individuals with diabetes or at risk of diabetes should monitor their intake of sugary foods and beverages.
Sugarcane juice is calorie-dense due to its natural sugar content, which can contribute to weight gain if consumed in excess. Regular consumption without balancing calorie intake through diet and exercise may lead to an increase in overall calorie intake, potentially resulting in weight gain over time. Moderation is important, and it’s advisable to include sugarcane juice as part of a balanced diet.
Sugarcane juice has a high acidity level, which can potentially exacerbate acidity issues in some individuals, particularly those prone to acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). However, its impact can vary among individuals, and factors like consumption on an empty stomach or combined with acidic foods may influence acidity levels. It’s advisable for individuals with acidity concerns to monitor their intake and consider moderation or alternatives.
Sugarcane juice itself is unlikely to directly cause a cough. However, if consumed excessively or contaminated, it may lead to throat irritation or exacerbate existing respiratory issues in sensitive individuals. Ensuring hygiene during preparation and consumption, as well as moderation, can help minimize any potential adverse effects.
Yes, drinking sugarcane juice daily can be a healthy choice due to its rich nutrient content, including antioxidants and vitamins. However, moderation is key as excessive consumption may lead to an increase in sugar intake.
Pregnant women can safely consume sugarcane juice in moderation as it provides essential nutrients like iron and folate. However, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before adding it to their diet to ensure it aligns with their individual health needs.
There’s no direct evidence linking sugarcane juice to acne. However, excessive consumption of sugary beverages may contribute to insulin spikes and inflammation, potentially exacerbating acne in some individuals. It’s important to maintain a balanced diet and skincare regimen for overall skin health.
While sugarcane juice can offer hydration and some nutrients, it’s best to avoid it during fever due to its high sugar content, which may strain the immune system. Opting for plain water, herbal teas, or electrolyte-rich beverages is recommended to help maintain hydration levels during illness.
Sugarcane juice is typically served cold, especially in warm climates, as a refreshing beverage. However, it can also be enjoyed hot by adding spices like ginger or cinnamon for a comforting drink during colder weather.
Sugarcane juice contains fibre and antioxidants which can aid digestion by promoting bowel movements and supporting gut health. However, excessive consumption may lead to gastrointestinal discomfort, so moderation is key for reaping its digestive benefits.
Sugarcane juice can help with loose motions because it hydrates and contains electrolytes, but don’t drink too much. It’s best to balance it with other rehydration options your doctor suggests.
There’s no scientific evidence to support the claim that sugarcane juice can induce periods. Menstrual cycles are regulated by hormonal changes in the body, and while diet can influence overall health, sugarcane juice specifically hasn’t been shown to affect menstrual cycles.
Yes, sugarcane juice naturally contains sugar because it’s extracted from sugarcane, a plant known for its sweetness. However, the sugar in sugarcane juice is primarily composed of sucrose, which is a combination of glucose and fructose, and it’s typically considered a healthier option compared to processed sugars when consumed in moderation.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
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