Maple syrup is full of antioxidants that help cells quickly absorb glucose, which is why it has a low glycemic index. Maple syrup was richer in polyphenols than corn syrup, brown rice syrup and white sugar. Polyphenols are powerful antioxidants with the ability to reduce oxidative stress that causes diseases such as type 2 diabetes, obesity and cardiovascular disease. It also induced less insulin secretion: another quality sought for diabetes prevention.