We all know that sugar is bad for health. It tastes great, but it has been linked to cavities, obesity, diabetes, heart disease,accelerated agingand many other diseases. But for those who can't imagine their tomorrowCup of coffeewithout a little sugar it can be hard to get used to.
For decades, food scientists have been developing alternatives to sugar known as artificial sweeteners. Most of these sugar substitutes are chemically made, but are generally safe to consume. in the united states it isFDA approvedthe following compounds as artificial sweeteners:
- aspartame
- Acesulfame potassium (often used in combination with other sweeteners)
- Neotame (mainly used in diet foods and beverages)
- saccharin
- sucralosa
- Cena
- monk fruit extract
- Advanname (currently not commonly used)
These artificial sweeteners may be considered safe, but are they necessarily healthy?
Most artificial sweeteners are highly concentrated, which means you need to use less to achieve a sugar-like sweet taste. This, along with the fact that they do not cause a spike in blood sugar levels, makes them an attractive prospect for many people with dietary restrictions.
However, some research suggests that these sugar substitutes may cause increased appetite, leading to weight gain for the user. Some artificial sweeteners can also negatively affect digestive health and cause unpleasant side effects like gas and diarrhea.
However, there are a number of artificial sweeteners out there, so below we'll break down the world's best sweeteners for your health and our recommended brands in both categories.
similar posts
The Take Anywhere AeroPress Coffee Maker is 33% off today only
Update your kitchen with one of these premium essentials on sale
The best artificial sweeteners.
While the best kind of sugar is unsweetened, the five artificial sweeteners listed below are decent substitutes for real sugar and are great for making low-sugar cakes and breakfast mixes.
1. Syrup of agave
BEST OF THE BEST
In the last five years, agave syrup has evolvedone of the most popular alternativesto sugar. The syrup is made from the sap of the agave plant, a species of cactus native to Mexico. Because agave contains less glucose than table sugar, it doesn't spike blood sugar levels, making it a better choice for people with diabetes. On the other hand, it still contains a lot of fructose and can therefore cause liver damage with prolonged use. This makes agave syrup a healthy alternative to sugar. Just be sure to buy and use high-quality, organic agave like this Agave In The Raw sweetener.
2. Stevia
BEST FOR HOT DRINKS
Stevia is a sweet substance derived from it.Stevia rebaudianaSouth American plant. People have used the leaves of this plant to sweeten foods and beverages for centuries, but the FDA has only approved a highly refined form of stevia out of concerns about eating it raw. The result of government-approved processes is a substance called steviol glycoside.200 to 400 times sweeterAs Sugar Today, stevia is available in many forms and can be used in everything from hot drinks to baked goods.
3. Monk Fruit Extract
BEST FOR SHAKES
Native to Southeast Asia, monk fruit has been dried and used in herbal medicine for centuries. But in fact, this substance contains mogrosides, which are 150-200 times sweeter than sugar. EITHERFDA approvedDried monk fruit to use as a table top sweetener in smoothies or hot drinks. Best of all, Monk Fruit Extract is zero calories, zero carbs, and zero sugar. It is also a source of antioxidants. However, monk fruit is generally more expensive than other sweeteners, and some people find it unpleasant-tasting.
4. Coconut sugar
BEST FOR ROASTS
It's important to note that the last three "artificial" sweeteners on our list are actually real sugars. They contain glucose, sucrose and fructose, so the body digests them in the same way as sugar. However, they do not contain as much fructose as refined sugar, and they also provide small amounts of other nutrients. Coconut blossom sugar in particular has become increasingly popular in recent years because it is such a natural product. In addition, it is an individual substitute for granulated sugar and can therefore be used in baking recipes without any problem.
5. Yacon syrup
ULTIMATE SUBSTITUTE FOR SUGAR
Recently, yacon syrup has garnered a lot of positive press attention thanks to various celebrities touting its efficacy, includinglittle laurel. The syrup is made from yacon, a potato-like vegetable grown in the Andes of South America. Unlike many artificial sweeteners that upset the delicate balance of bacteria in your gut, yacon is actually a prebiotic and is high in fiber, helping to feed beneficial bacteria in your digestive tract. However, some users say that yacon syrup can cause an upset stomach. Therefore, it is better to limit consumption to one or two teaspoons for the first time.
The worst artificial sweeteners
Let's start by discussing the worst artificial sweeteners for your health. Despite being sold without sugar and often without calories, these sweeteners are packed with chemicals that do your body no favors.
6. Aspartame
WORST SIDE EFFECTS
Although you will see aspartame in many artificial sweeteners, including Equal, it is actuallyassociated with a number of side effects, including headaches, nausea, and fatigue on the mild end of the spectrum. It can also cause more serious health effects such as seizures, heart palpitations, and anxiety attacks. However, on the other hand, some studies suggest that the negative effects may be exaggerated. Scientists continue to study aspartame, but until conclusive research is available, it may be best to avoid ingesting it.
7. Sucralosa
MORE POPULAR
First introduced and certified by the FDA in 1999, sucralose (sold as Splenda) has become one of the most popular artificial sweeteners in the United States. This sugar substitute is made from the sugar itself. Using a chemical process makes sucralose 400 to 700 times sweeter than sugar, which means you need less in a cup of coffee to get the same effect. However,Sucralose has been linked to increases in blood sugar levels.and a decrease in healthy bacteria in the GI tract. Sucralose should also not be used in baking, as it can release harmful chemicals when heated.
8. saccharin
FIRST ARTIFICIAL SWEETENER
Known as the first chemically manufactured artificial sweetener, saccharin has been sold as Sweet 'N Low for decades. It's also a popular ingredient in diet sodas, juices, chewing gum, and even some toothpastes. Today, most of the world's governments consider saccharin safe for consumption; However, some studies done on rats have done so.linked the sweetener to bladder cancer.Recent studies have shown that it can alter the bacterial balance in the intestine. While it may not be as harmful as aspartame, more research needs to be done on this particular artificial sweetener.
9. Xylitol
BEST SUGAR ALCOHOL
Both xylitol and erythritol (number five) are considered sugar alcohols. This means that they are created by combining a sugar molecule with an alcohol molecule, creating a completely new substance. The body does not absorb sugar alcohol in the same way that it digests sugar. Therefore, diabetics have found the use of xylitol to be helpful in maintaining steady blood sugar levels. This Xylitol Zint is certified organic and plant-based and is available in 10-ounce, 1-pound, and 5-pound bags. it should be noted thatXylitol taken in large doses can cause diarrhea and gas.
10. Erythritis
THE BEST OF THE WORST
If you read the package of erythritol sold by Anthony's, you'll think it's a miracle food sent to solve your sugar woes since it's gluten-free and GMO-free. And while it has a very low glycemic index and zero calories, it's still a sugar alcohol like xylitol and has many of the same side effects. Erythritol in particular is fermented by bacteria in the stomach.cause gas and bloating.That being said, there do not appear to be any serious side effects from consuming trace amounts of erythritol in your diet.
Hey Sugar: The 7 Best Blood Glucose Monitors for Diabetes Management