Food sweetening
Food Sweetening: The Healthier Alternative
Food sweetening has been a popular way to add flavor to meals for centuries, but fortunately, our modern food marketplace has shifted to provide consumers with healthier sweetening options. Natural sweeteners are increasingly replacing traditional sugar as a safer, healthier alternative, leaving consumers with many different options if they’re looking to avoid artificial sweeteners.
Benefits of Natural Sweeteners
Natural sweeteners are made of certain plants, fruits or vegetables. And while they still contain calories, they don’t contain as much as traditional sugar. Furthermore, they offer a number of health benefits, including:
- Lower risk of cavities
- Reduced risk of gaining weight
- Lower risk of type 2 diabetes
- Lower risk of heart attacks
- Improved digestion
Types of Natural Sweeteners
When it comes to natural sweeteners, there is a wide variety of choices available on today’s market. Some of the most popular natural sweeteners include:
- Agave – Perhaps the most popular natural sweetener on the market. Agave is a thick syrup that comes from the agave plant. It has a low glycemic index, is 90% fructose and contains a variety of vitamins and minerals.
- Maple Syrup – Another popular natural sweetener, maple syrup is derived from the sap of maple trees. It has more nutrients and minerals than sugar, while still containing a sweet taste.
- Honey – A classic sweetener of choice, honey is made from the nectar of flowers. It has a wide variety of flavors and has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries.
- Coconut Sugar – This natural sweetener can be found in many health food stores, and is becoming increasingly popular. It has a light brown color, and is low carbon, making it eco-friendly.
Making the Switch
Swapping out traditional sugar for natural sweeteners is a great way to reduce your fat and calorie intake while still enjoying a sweet treat. By using natural sweeteners, you can rest assured knowing you are taking advantage of all the health benefits they offer.