Great Alternatives to Sugar
Healthy eating practitioners are always
recommending us to cut down on sugar. We all know ourselves that sugar
damages our health, but it’s so difficult to say no to this sweet
delight. Thankfully, there are 10 natural sweeteners that’ll help you
forget all about sugar.
1. Coconut Sugar
Despite the fact that it contains 375
calories per 100g, coconut sugar has a low glycemic index and it is
loaded with minerals, phytonutrients, and vitamins. Furthermore, it
tastes absolutely delicious – much better than normal sugar.
Where to use: Anywhere instead of normal sugar.
2. Barley Malt
This is an excellent substitute for sugar as it reinforces your immune
system, boosts your metabolism, and improves eyesight.
Where to use: This should be used when baking as it gives the dough a
special flavor and a crispy crust.
3. Molasses
This is rich in B vitamins and minerals, and tastes so much like normal
sugar that you might not even be able to tell the difference.
Where to use: This is best used in baked foods and desserts.
4. Agave Syrup
Although it contains 310 calories per 100g,
the fact it is much sweeter than sugar means it can be used in smaller
quantities. It’s a much healthier option as it is full of iron, calcium,
and potassium.
Where to use: Any beverages and cocktails. Agave syrup is not as thick
as honey and dissolves easily in water.
5. Dates
These are a wholesome and nutritious fruit, that are often recommended
as healthy snacks. It also turns out that they’re a good substitute for
sugar.
Where to use: Sure, you can drop them straight into a cup of tea or
coffee, but they can also easily take the place of biscuits. Or you can
buy date syrup, and add it to anything you like.
6. Mulberry Syrup
In the East, the mulberry is known as “The Queen of Berries" due to its
healing properties. Mulberry syrup contains all these properties, plus
it gives a lovely taste to food.
Where to use: Beverages and desserts.
7. Sorghum Sugar
Made from the sap of sweet sorghum, this sugar has been used in China
for centuries, and it is renowned for all the health benefits it brings.
Furthermore, it also contains about half as many calories as sugar.
Where to use: Beverages, desserts, and dough
8. Maple Syrup
This tasty syrup decreases the risk of
cancer and diabetes. It’s also low in calories and is extremely tasty.
Where to use: Salad dressings, dough, marinades.
9. Liquid Grape Sugar
Grape sugar is increasing in popularity, threatening to oust common
sugar. It’s even believed to have the ability to prolong life. If that
isn't enough, it’s also low in calories.
Where to use: Beverages, desserts, dough, marinades.
10. Stevia
This is top of the class among low-calorie sugar substitutes. Therefore,
it’s highly popular among those who are trying to manage their weight.
Not only does it have a mere 18 calories per 100 grams, but it’s also 25
times sweeter than sugar, so you only need a tiny amount of it.
Where to use: Anywhere instead of normal sugar