We were about to say in the title something about how we're about to list some health benefits in addition to the ones we already knew, but we'll be honest: who knew that maple syrup had much benefit at all to begin with??

Apparently you can substitute it as sweetener in almost every situation. So not only is it versatile, but it adds these benefits as well:

It's an antioxidant powerhouse. Researchers at the University of Rhode Island found that maple syrup is filled with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds that may help prevent several chronic and inflammatory diseases like diabetes, cancer, osteoporosis, and Alzheimer's. It also comes packed with phenolics — the beneficial antioxidant compounds in maple syrup — that may help diabetics keep their blood sugar levels balanced since phenolics inhibit the enzymes that are involved in the conversion of carbohydrates to sugar.

Holy hell! We had no idea! We're so sorry for ignoring you so long, maple syrup!

Wait? What's that? There's more?

It settles digestion issues. Try swapping out sugar in baked-good recipes for maple syrup, and you may find that the usual gas and bloating you normally experience after consuming processed sweeteners is no longer an issue. If you do replace sugar with maple syrup, just be sure to reduce the amount of liquid the recipe calls for by about a half-cup.

It helps with muscle recovery. Real maple syrup is an excellent source of manganese, which helps repair muscle and cell damage; it also keeps bones strong and blood sugar levels normal.

It is filled with important nutrients. Maple syrup contains essential nutrients like zinc, iron, calcium, and potassium. Zinc not only supports reproductive health, but it also helps to keep your white blood cells up, which assist in the protection against colds and viruses.

That's incredible, maple syrup!

Though, let's not kid anyone here — you're still just sugar in liquid form. Which means we can't chug you. Because that would be stupid.

We can have you in moderation, though!!

[Image via AP Images.]

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