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Sugar Substitutes

15 years ago 0 +0 / -0 7

I am not a big fan of the use of chemicals and prefer things to be in there natural state, growing up in a farm family I knew what was going into and out of my parent's, uncle's garden's and barn's. Yet, in the same breath, my medications are chemical and have side effect's, so like for the diabetic the sweetner is a better alternative, for myself the medication I am on is.

15 years ago 0 +0 / -0 43

I think this is a good idea in theory. I've never been able to have enough time in my day to avoid white sugar altogether, but I certainly notice that I feel worse when I eat more of it! I bought some xylitol awhile ago, and I don't know how it compares as far as the blood sugar spike, but it has fewer calories than sugar, is actually good for your teeth rather than bad or just neutral, and is a lot more expensive than regular sugar. :) Haven't tried it yet - unfortunately you can't use it in anything that has yeast in it, and I was hoping to use it in bread, because it affects the growth of the yeast. But I do like using honey and molasses better than plain white sugar.

15 years ago 0 +0 / -0 9

In our family we try to avoid white sugar as much as possible, and do use honey and molasses. We also use another natural sweetener you haven't mentioned: agave nectar. It comes from the same plant as tequila (yes!), yet obvoiusly without the alcohol. It has slightly more calories than some other sweeteners, tablespoon for tablespoon, but it is slightly sweeter than some, so you can use less of it. From what I've read, it doesn't cause your blood sugar to spike the way other sweeteners do. It has a neutral flavor and I like using it in herbal teas.

- Marisa

15 years ago 0 +0 / -0 823

Sugar Substitutes

Like Pooh Bear and his honey jar, sweet treats are the comfort food of choice for many of us. Most of us (since childhood) unconsciously associate sugar with emotions of love, reward and pleasure.

Sugar after all, is a carbohydrate which fuels our brain and muscles. Eating sugar raises blood sugar levels and insulin……..but the quick rise results in a quick crash causing the body to crave more. This is how sugar addiction begins.

Sugar in high amounts has been linked to poor glucose regulation, poor immune function, weight gain issues, digestive complaints and even poor brain function (attention deficit, poor memory, hyperactivity).

With the modern era and advanced food-processing techniques, several sugar substitutes have been created ranging from artificial sweeteners like saccharin, aspartame (Equal, Nutrasweet, Splenda). These products have fuelled controversy on the health risks and adverse effects of artificial sweeteners. This is due to the chemicals in these sweeteners that have known hazards. But some evidence indicates they are appropriate for diabetics or those trying to lose weight.

Members………..what are your thoughts on sugar and artificial sweeteners?
Consider using substitutes and alternatives to white sugar such as honey, molasses, brown sugar and a new herbal product called Stevia. These are natural sources that prevent unknown health hazards when used in moderation.

Faryal - Health Educator

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Sugar Substitutes