It’s so overwhelming when you’re standing in your local health food store looking at aisles and aisles of natural sweeteners all claiming to be the best. They come in all forms too, such as powders, liquids and granules… which one is good for me? Why are they healthier? Which one should I choose?
Whether you are a sugar addict, moderate sugar fiend or a seasoned ‘I quit sugar’ devotee, it is important to know the basics on natural sweeteners. Sporty sisters we’ve got you covered with our pick of the week – The Top Natural Sweeteners – an explanation on some popular alternatives and why they could be great for you…
First, here’s ‘the know’ about sugars.
Sugar in its natural form is important in the diet – it provides our body with energy and is readily stored in the liver for when we need it most. It can also help to manage how we handle stress by affecting the level of the stress hormone ‘cortisol’ in our body.
However, all powdered and granulated white and brown sugars found in the baking aisles are all highly refined, while others like our natural sweeteners are made with fewer steps on the processing chain. The less time on this processing chain, the more vitamins and minerals left in the end product!
These are our top natural sweetener picks:
Fun Foodie Fact:
Did you know that Agave Syrup isn’t actually as healthy as you think. It has been built up as a reputable natural sweetener (no thanks to strategic marketeers) but the fact is it holds the same nutritional value as high fructose corn syrup, which is cheaply made and highly processed. Not to mention that it will give you a huge sugar spike and send your blood sugar levels through the roof!!
How much sugar should I eat?
Don’t focus too much on the numbers as counting calories can cause needless food obsession. Listen to your body. If you are exercising regularly with lots of MNBing some of these natural sweeteners will help you nourish!
Next time you are stocking your grocery bag and are searching for a natural sweetener for your pumpkin brownies or to jazz up your daily tea, remember the facts and know that just because the bottle claims to be healthy, it may be a wolf in sheep’s clothing. Take in these nourishing facts to find a natural sweetener that will benefit your body, not cause you harm.
Fiona
xx
This article was originally posted on 01/05/13