If you're like most people, you probably consume at least some sugar every day. But what would happen if you completely cut sugar out of your diet?
Without sugar, your body would still function. However, you would likely feel some pretty significant side effects.
For one thing, you would probably become very tired.
Sugar provides a quick source of energy for the body, and without it, you would likely feel fatigued.
You might also have trouble concentrating and could feel irritable or depressed.
Your body would also start to crave sugar after a few days without it.
This is where sugar alternatives come into play. What if we tell you there are many sugar alternatives in the market today that can substitute for your need for sugar?
In this article, you will learn all you need to know about sugar alternatives and more.
Why Go For Sugar Alternatives?
There are many reasons why people might go for sugar alternatives.
1. Cut Back On Sugar Intake
One reason is that they might be trying to cut back on their sugar intake.
Sugar can be harmful to our health if we consume too much of it, so by reducing the amount of sugar we eat, we can improve our overall health.
2. Medical Conditions
Another reason someone might choose an alternative to sugar is that they have diabetes or another condition that requires them to limit their sugar intake.
They can help people with diabetes maintain better blood sugar control.
3. Taste Preference
Finally, some people simply prefer the taste of these alternatives to regular sugar.
No matter what the reason is, there are plenty of good reasons to go for an alternative to sugar instead of regular sugar.
Best Sugar Alternatives In The Market
1. Maple Syrup
Maple syrup is a natural alternative to sugar that has several benefits over more refined sugars.
- Maple syrup is lower on the glycemic index than white sugar, meaning it doesn't cause spikes in blood sugar levels.
- Maple syrup also contains minerals like zinc and manganese, which are not found in white sugar.
- And because maple syrup is produced by tapping trees, it has a smaller carbon footprint than cane sugar.
So if you're looking for a healthier alternative to sugar, maple syrup is a great option.
Just be sure to choose pure maple syrup, as some brands add artificial flavors and colors.
2. Honey
Honey has been used as an alternative to sugar for centuries. It is a natural sweetener that is made by bees from the nectar of flowers.
It is sweeter than sugar and has a higher calorie content. It also has medicinal properties and can be used to treat wounds and burns.
Honey is a healthy alternative to sugar and can be used in baking and cooking.
3. Coconut Sugar
Coconut sugar is an alternative to sugar that is made from the sap of coconuts.
It has a lower glycemic index than regular sugar, which means it doesn't cause as much of a spike in blood sugar levels.
Coconut sugar also contains more nutrients than regular sugar, including iron, zinc, and calcium.
Coconut sugar can be used in the same way as regular sugar, but it does have a slightly different flavor.
It can be used in baking or sprinkled on top of cereal or fruit.
Coconut sugar is a great alternative for people who are looking to reduce their sugar intake but still want something sweet.
4. Agave Nectar
Agave nectar is a natural sugar alternative that has been gaining popularity in recent years.
Made from the sap of the agave plant, agave nectar is a sweeter option than sugar with a lower glycemic index.
This means that it doesn't cause the spikes in blood sugar levels that sugar does, making it a better choice for people who are looking to avoid those spikes.
It also contains vitamins and minerals that sugar does not, making it a more nutrient-rich option as well.
5. Stevia Sweeteners
There are many sugar alternatives on the market today, but one of the most popular ones is stevia sweeteners.
Stevia is a plant-based sweetener that has become increasingly popular in recent years as an alternative to sugar.
Healthier Than Sugar
One of the main reasons that stevia sweeteners have become so popular is that they are much healthier than sugar.
Sugar is full of empty calories and has been linked to various health problems, such as obesity and diabetes.
On the other hand, stevia is calorie-free and has some health benefits.
For example, it has been shown to lower blood pressure and improve blood sugar control.
Environmentally Friendly
Another advantage of stevia is that it is much more environmentally friendly than sugar.
Sugar production requires a lot of water and land, and it also results in greenhouse gas emissions.
Stevia production, on the other hand, requires very little water and land, making it a much more sustainable option.
If you're looking for a healthy and sustainable alternative, stevia may be the perfect choice for you!
|
Calories |
Safe for diabetics |
Natural |
|
|
Maple Syrup |
High |
- | Yes |
|
Honey |
High |
- | Yes |
|
Coconut Sugar |
Low |
- | Yes |
|
Agave Nectar |
High |
- | Yes |
|
Stevia Sweetener |
Zero | Yes | Yes |
Try Bonvia As An Alternative To Sugar
If you are looking for an alternative to sugar, Bonvia is one of the best options available out there.
Being a mixture of two ingredients, Bonvia contains pure natural stevia as well as eryhthritol a natural sweetener present in fruits.
The eryhthritol balances the level of sweetness since unprocessed stevia is 300 times sweeter than sugar.
With a low glycemic index and no sugar content, Bonvia is suitable for patients with diabetes but it is best to consult a medical professional before making the choice.
Moreover, there are no known side effects of Bonvia making it safe for consumption as an alternative to sugar.
Contact us today if you have any questions!
Stevia Calories Vs Sugar Cane Calories
When it comes to calories, stevia calories, and sugar cane calories are quite different.
Sugar cane calories are around 45 per tablespoon, while stevia calories are zero.
This is because stevia is a plant-based sweetener that comes from the Stevia rebaudiana plant, while sugar cane is a type of sugar made from the sucrose in sugar cane plants.
So, if you're trying to cut down on calories, stevia would be the better choice.
Ways To Cut Down Sugar Intake
If you're looking to reduce the amount of sugar in your diet, there are a few things you can do.
1. Avoid Processed Foods
First, try to avoid processed foods as much as possible. These often contain high amounts of sugar.
Instead, focus on eating fresh, whole foods. This includes fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
2. Be Aware Of Sugar Content In Common Foods And Beverages
Another tip is to be aware of the sugar content in some common foods and beverages.
For example, many sodas and juices are loaded with sugar. And even something like yogurt can have a lot of added sugar.
So be sure to check labels and opt for brands that have less sugar.
3. Be Mindful Of The Alternatives
Finally, don't forget that natural sources of sugar like honey and maple syrup can also add up. So if you're trying to cut back on sugar, be mindful of how much of these you're using as well.
Final Thoughts
There are many reasons to choose sugar alternatives over regular sugar.
- These alternatives are often sweeter, so you need less of them to get the same sweet taste.
- They also tend to be lower in calories and carbs, which can be helpful if you're watching your weight or trying to manage diabetes.
- Some alternatives even have health benefits, like providing antioxidants or helping to regulate blood sugar levels.
When it comes to choosing alternatives to sugar, there are lots of options available.
You can find alternatives made from natural sources like stevia or monk fruit, or you can choose artificial options like aspartame or sucralose.
Ultimately, it's up to you to decide what's best for your needs and preferences.
FAQs
1. What is the healthiest alternative to sugar?
The best alternative to sugar is stevia.
This natural sweetener comes from a plant and has been used for centuries in South America.
Stevia is up to 300 times sweeter than sugar, so you only need a tiny amount to sweeten your food or drink.
It’s also low on the glycemic index and doesn’t cause spikes in blood sugar levels. Plus, it has no calories and is safe for people with diabetes.
2. What can I do instead of eating sugar?
There are many things you can do instead of eating sugar.
- You can try replacing sugary foods with healthier alternatives, such as fruits or nuts.
- You can also cut back on the amount of sugar you consume each day. If you're craving something sweet, try drinking water or unsweetened tea instead of sugary drinks.
- You can also satisfy your sweet tooth by eating dark chocolate, which contains less sugar than milk chocolate.
By making these small changes, you'll be on your way to reducing your sugar intake and living a healthier life.