It has long been known that sugar is one of the most harmful foods. Its main harm is that it is quickly absorbed into the blood and leads to a rapid increase in glucose levels, and then just as quickly reduces it. Excess sugar in the diet affects the entire body and can lead not only to excess weight, but also to serious health problems.
Do not forget that sugar is one of the most powerful flavor enhancers, and it is added to a large number of foods. So carefully study the composition of products before buying, in order to limit yourself from unnecessary sugar, and accordingly from unnecessary calories. However, it’s worth noting that there is something useful in sugar – the glucose our brain needs.
So within reasonable limits, sugar will not cause much harm. But it’s better to look for a more dietary replacement.
We offer you the top 20 alternatives that can replace sugar and sweeten your dishes.
- Honey is the perfect sweetener. Just a spoonful of honey in your favorite tea will not only fill your drink with a unique flavor, but also help boost your immune system, fight inflammation, and give you fresh energy.
- Maple syrup. A great addition to your morning porridge or pancakes. However, when buying it, you need to be wary: manufacturers often produce expensive fakes that have nothing in common with natural maple syrup.
- Raisins. Unlike sugar, raisins are high in fiber as well as antioxidants. Feel free to add them to scones, muffins and other baked goods.
- Mashed apples. Down with unhealthy treats like cookies and candy! Rich in vitamins and pectin, applesauce can be an amazing dessert if you add berries, nuts, and cinnamon.
- Speaking of cinnamon. Stop the habit of adding sugar to coffee and add just a pinch of this spice. The taste will be tangy and sweet, and cinnamon is also good for strengthening the immune system.
- Dates. They are very sweet, but at the same time, the glucose content is minimal. It is an excellent treat for sweet tooth.
- Milk. Gives a sweetish taste to your morning coffee – and you don’t need sugar.
- Lemon. Don’t be embarrassed by its acidity: the glucose content of lemon juice is enough for good brain function.
- Lime. And this sour fruit contains just the right amount of glucose. You can not only add it to tea, but also make delicious homemade lemonades.
- Cranberries. These northern berries have a number of medicinal properties and look great in baked goods, morsels, sugar-free jams.
- Agave. Can be found in the supermarket in the form of nectar. Good to add to porridges, teas, soft drinks.
- Banana puree. A good addition to baked goods – gives an interesting exotic flavor. And even though muffins with banana puree do not look puffy, they are much more useful because of their low sugar content.
- Fruit ice. A great alternative to ice cream on a hot summer day.
- Balsamic glaze. Made from grape must, it’s often sold in fruit flavors, but you can also find it without additives. A great topping for a variety of desserts.
- Peanut paste. It is able to reduce the feeling of hunger, as it contains protein and fiber, satiating the body. In addition, it contains a lot of vitamins, minerals and healthy fats. However, do not forget that peanut paste is a caloric product, so do not get carried away with it.
- Stevia extract. Stevia is a plant common in Central and South America. It is a natural sweetener that is hundreds of times sweeter than sugar, but does not affect blood glucose levels.
- Cocoa powder. If you add unsweetened cocoa powder to boiling water or hot milk, you get a delicious drink for cozy winter evenings. And you don’t need any sugar!
- Brown Rice Syrup. Suitable for adding to baked goods, and pancakes and pancakes are especially delicious.
- Fitparad. This modern sugar substitute contains a polyatomic alcohol that can be found in all fruits. It is sold as a fine powder, slightly less sweet than sugar, but does not ruin tooth enamel.
- Coconut sugar. Derived from the flowers of the coconut. It contains a lot of calcium, useful for the strength of bones, teeth, nails and hair. It is best added to beverages.