How to Substitute Sugar
Losing weight and maintaining blood sugar levels at an acceptable range are just a couple of reasons people use sugar substitutes. Before you switch to artificial sweeteners, make sure that you know what you’re using. Here are some tips you can follow to substitute sugar.
Do a research. Before choosing a sugar alternative, make sure that you know the important facts of that product.
Know if it’s safe to be used by diabetics. If you have diabetes, be careful on the sugar substitute that you’re going to use. Some sweeteners, though less in sugar may be high in calories and may still increase your blood sugar levels.
Consult your doctor. Some sweeteners may have undesirable side effects like diarrhea and headaches. Ask your doctor about the sweeteners that you can use.
Different Sugar Alternatives
Here are some facts on some of the sugar substitutes you can use.
Agave has a low glycemic index. It doesn’t alter your blood sugar and insulin levels. It also has a small amount of calcium, iron and other minerals. This is about 25% sweeter than sugar.
sugar
Blackstrap molasses are almost as sweet as sugar. They contain vitamin B6, magnesium, iron and other nutrients.These substances can be used for cooking and baking.
Maple syrup is a good sugar alternative that can be used in baking. Diabetics should limit their use of maple syrup as it can affect blood sugar levels.
Raw honey is an antioxidant that can substitute for sugar. This is about 50% sweeter than sugar. You can use this for cooking, baking and in beverages. Diabetics should be careful when using honey because like maple syrup, it can also alter blood sugar levels. (For other uses of honey, read 15 unconventional uses for honey)
Stevia is a lot sweeter than sugar. It’s low in calories and has been said to help decrease blood sugar levels. Diabetics can use this as a sugar alternative. Stevia also contains zinc, magnesium and calcium.
Xylitol is known to be a sugar alcohol. It doesn’t have an after taste and has lower calories than sugar. People with diabetes can safely use this sugar alternative.
Erythritol is also a sugar alcohol and can be used by diabetics safely.
Artificial Sweeteners
Here are what’s in those popular artificial sweeteners you see on the market.
Sweet One is Acesulfame-k.
Equal has Aspartame
Splenda is made up of Sucralose
Sweet ‘N Low has Saccharin
Nutrasweet is made of Aspartame.
Being health conscious starts with proper research. Be knowledgeable on the different sugar substitutes you can buy. Making informed decisions are very important, especially when it comes to your health. If you learn from this article, you’ll surely be interested in reading how to control blood sugar.