Malt contains maltose, a simple disaccharide sugar with two bonded glucose molecules that easily breaks down into glucose that can be used by every cell in the body. Muscle cells obtain glucose from the blood for a quick energy boost. It is the preferred energy source for the brain, and the only energy source for red blood cells. 

Many added sugars are high in fructose that is toxic to the liver. Table sugar is 50% fructose, and high fructose corn syrup is >50% fructose. In contrast, maltose contains very little fructose (less than 1%). 

Malt contains a wide range of polyphenols with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-allergic, anti-cancer, anti-diabetic, cardioprotective, neuroprotective properties. Some of the bioactives in malt are linked to skin and bone health. 

It also contains a wide range of other nutrients including essential amino acids, soluble fibres, vitamin B2, B3 and B6, iron, calcium, potassium, magnesium, manganese and selenium. Refined sugar and artificial sweeteners do not contain any of these nutrients.