Overview of the health benefits of malt sugar

Maltose, also known as maltose, is a traditional sugar made by fermenting glutinous rice, wheat and other grains as raw materials. It has both sweetness and medicinal value. Its health-preserving effects are mainly reflected inMoisten the lungs and relieve cough, strengthen the spleen and stomach, and replenish qi.Three aspects, especially suitable for those with weak constitution or poor spleen and stomach. Secondary effects include relieving fatigue and improving constipation. It should be noted that maltose has a high sugar content and should be used with caution by diabetic patients. The following will analyze its specific functions and applicable scenarios in layers from the perspectives of traditional medicine and modern nutrition.

Moisten the lungs and relieve cough, relieve respiratory discomfort

The sticky texture of caramel can cover the throat mucosa, forming a protective layer and reducing the symptoms of dry cough or dry itchy throat. "Compendium of Materia Medica" records that it "moistens the lungs and relieves coughs" and is often combined with pears and honey to enhance the effect. Traditional Chinese medicine believes that maltose is warm in nature and suitable for coughs caused by wind-cold, but may aggravate symptoms of coughs caused by wind-heat (yellow and thick phlegm). Modern research also shows that its rich maltitol has a mild antitussive effect, but the intake needs to be controlled to avoid excessive phlegm and dampness.

Strengthen the spleen and stomach, improve digestive function

Malt sugar enters the spleen meridian, which can promote the secretion of gastric juice and help digest food accumulation. The "Dietotherapeutic Materia Medica" of the Tang Dynasty mentions that it "tonifies cold deficiency and strengthens strength" and is suitable for loss of appetite and abdominal distension caused by deficiency and coldness of the spleen and stomach. Consuming a small amount can relieve the burning sensation caused by excessive stomach acid, but patients with gastric ulcers should not take it on an empty stomach. In addition, the oligosaccharides in maltose can regulate intestinal flora and slightly improve constipation, but excessive amounts may cause acid reflux or diarrhea.

Tonify the body and replenish qi, assist in restoring physical strength

Malt sugar is rich in easily absorbed carbohydrates, which can quickly replenish energy. It is traditionally used to treat physical weakness after childbirth or illness. "Suixiju Diet Manual" of the Qing Dynasty calls it "alleviating and replenishing deficiency" and is suitable for those with insufficient Qi and blood. Modern people can relieve fatigue by taking a small amount of maltose after high-intensity work. However, due to its high glycemic index, people with obesity or metabolic syndrome need to strictly limit it, and it is recommended not to exceed 20 grams per day.

Summary and Notes

As a typical representative of the origin of medicine and food, maltose has unique value in moistening the lungs, strengthening the spleen, and replenishing qi, but it needs to be used based on syndrome differentiation. Healthy people can use it as an occasional dessert substitute, but people with chronic illnesses should consult a physician. When purchasing, give priority to pure maltose products without additives, such asShandong Luhua Group"Ancient Jelly Candy" orBeijing Tongrentang"Imperial Sugar Paste". The following is some manufacturer and product information:

Quote sources:

1. "Compendium of Materia Medica" (Li Shizhen of the Ming Dynasty) records the efficacy of caramel in moistening the lungs;
2. The deficiency-tonifying effect mentioned in "Suixiju Diet Manual" (Wang Shixiong of the Qing Dynasty);
3. Modern nutrition research on maltitol (2020 paper in the Journal of Food Science).