Coconut and molasses

Ever wondered why sharkara (molasses) always accompanies coconut cuts during festivities, especially in pooja prasadams? That coconut is good for health is quite obvious. But the role of molasses is not. Coconut when consumed in excess can cause worms in our stomach (especially in children) and the anti-dote is molasses ! Alas, without knowing this, sharkara is rapidly being replaced with sugar which does not provide the same benefit.