HEALTH | Best Sugar Alternatives

Whether it’s added or natural, sugar can harm your health. Too much added sugar can place you at a greater risk for heart disease, liver disease, diabetes, obesity, and other health conditions. There are several sugar alternatives available that can be used as a
substitute for regular table sugar. Here are some of
the best sugar alternatives.

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Monk Fruit: Monk fruit is a natural sweetener derived from the monk fruit plant. It is up to 200 times sweeter than sugar and contains zero calories. To me, it is the best sugar substitute I’ve tried so far and it deserves to be at the top of the list. I usually purchase mine from Amazon. With the subscribe and save discount I usually pay $24 dollars for a 3 pound bag.

Stevia: Stevia is a natural sweetener derived from the leaves of the Stevia rebaudiana plant. It is up to 300 times sweeter than sugar and contains zero calories. You can buy stevia packets and carry them around in your purse. I find it to be very conveient when you grab a coffee on the go but there are not other sugar alternative to choose from.

Erythritol: Erythritol is a sugar alcohol that occurs naturally in fruits and vegetables. It has 70% of the sweetness of sugar and contains only 0.2 calories per gram.

Xylitol: Xylitol is another sugar alcohol that occurs naturally in fruits and vegetables. It has the same sweetness as sugar and contains 2.4 calories per gram. I would be careful with this one if you have pet. Xylitol is highly poisonous to dogs even in small doses. Xylitol is often found in toothpaste, and is a natural sweetener that won’t rot your teeth!

Coconut palm sugar: Coconut sugar is derived from the sap of coconut palm trees. It has a caramel-like flavor and contains trace amounts of nutrients like iron, zinc, and calcium. This one would be best if used in baking since the rich flavor does come through in coffee and other hot beverages.

It’s important to note that while these sugar alternatives may be healthier options, they should still be consumed in moderation as they can still contribute to calorie intake and affect blood sugar levels. If you’re looking for a good sugar replacement that taste closest to sugar, I suggest monk fruit sugar. There is no aftertaste whatsoever and it is zero calories. You really can’t beat it!

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