What is this beverage? What are its benefits?
Maple sap has beneficial properties comparable to birch sap. It is rich in B vitamins, C, PP, E, as well as minerals such as potassium and calcium. Its composition includes carotenoids, organic and polyunsaturated acids, lipids, aldehydes, and other valuable elements. As noted by gastroenterologist Natalia VASILEVSKAYA, there are no serious contraindications to consuming maple sap, except in cases of individual intolerance and allergic reactions.
Before starting to drink this beverage, it is advisable to consult a doctor, especially in the presence of gastrointestinal diseases or diabetes. It is also important to consider the location of the tree. If the maple grows near roads or industrial sites, there is a risk of contamination of the sap with heavy metal salts and other harmful substances.
The sap flow in maple trees begins with the first daytime thaws in March. For sap extraction during the day, the tree requires a positive temperature, while at night a slight drop is needed. Once the temperatures become consistently positive, sap production stops. Therefore, the period for collecting this beverage is relatively short—up to five to six weeks.
IMPORTANT TO KNOW
Maple sap is best consumed fresh. In the refrigerator, it retains its beneficial properties for 1.5 to 2 weeks. For long-term storage, the beverage is prepared in the traditional way: the sap must be boiled, poured into sterilized jars, and sealed with sterile metal lids.
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