Published 19:39 IST, August 26th 2023
Dates, jaggery, honey: 7 healthy alternatives to white sugar
As more and more people embrace a health-focused lifestyle, natural alternatives to white sugar are gaining attention.
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In a world where health-conscious choices are becoming increasingly important, quest for healthier alternatives to white sugar is gaining momentum. Natural sweeteners such as stevia, monk fruit extract, dates, honey and maple syrup have turned out to be favourites. se alternatives not only provide required dose of sweetness but also come with a range of health benefits that make m worthy ditions to your kitchen pantry.
2 things you need to know
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- Health-conscious choices have sparked interest in sugar alternatives.
- Diverse options offer flavorful, nutrient-rich sweetness without harming one's health.
Stevia
Derived from leaves of South American shrub, Stevia Rebaudiana, stevia has taken culinary world by storm. This natural gem is 450 times sweeter than sugar, with zero calories. Research suggests that stevia could aid weight management and blood sugar regulation, potentially shielding you from various chronic health concerns.
(Derived from leaves of South American shrub | Image: iStock)
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Coconut sugar
With a lower glycemic index than white sugar, coconut sugar is a hit among health enthusiasts. Packed with nutrients, including potassium, magnesium and zinc, it's a sustainable alternative that doesn't le to rapid spikes in blood sugar levels.
Monk fruit extract
Hailing from China, monk fruit extract is a revelation in natural sweetener domain. Its sweetness, attributed to mogrosides, doesn't affect blood sugar, rendering it a viable option for those striving for weight loss and improved blood sugar control. However, consumers should be cautious, as some products may blend monk fruit extract with or sweeteners.
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(Monk fruit exacts hails from China | Image: iStock)
Dates
A centuries-old natural delight, dates are re-emerging as a sweetening powerhouse. Len with fibre, vitamins and minerals, se chewy treats are nutritional powerhouse. y have ability to replace sugar in various recipes, from energy bars to smoothies.
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Maple syrup
Evoking images of cozy breakfasts, maple syrup isn't just delicious—it's brimming with minerals like calcium, iron and manganese. Its phenolic compounds provide anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits, though its calorie content suggests moderation is key.
(Mapel Syrup has minerals like calcium, iron, and manganese | Image: iStock)
Jaggery
A tritional sweetener hailing from India, jaggery is an unrefined sugar me from sugarcane or date palm sap. Len with minerals like iron and potassium, jaggery's earthy flavour and holistic benefits are increasingly finding favour among health enthusiasts.
Honey
A pantry staple since time immemorial, honey isn't just a sweetener, it's a treasure trove of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Its distinct profile, influenced by bees' diet and floral sources, makes it a healthy choice. Honey also scores better on glycemic index than conventional sugar, making it a wiser option for those seeking a gentler impact on blood sugar.
As more and more people embrace a health-focused lifestyle, exploring se natural alternatives to white sugar opens up a world of flavourful possibilities. Wher you're seeking to manage weight, regulate blood sugar or simply enjoy a more nutrient-rich diet, se options offer a myri of benefits. Before indulging your taste buds, remember to re labels, regulate consumption and savour sweetness of se nature-born delights.
19:39 IST, August 26th 2023