Sweet is an integral part of our
life. But too much of sweetness can have adverse effects on oral health as well
the overall health. Amongst all these concerns, the need for a healthier
substitute has aroused which not only satiates your sugar cravings but also has
no side effects on health. There are many sweeteners available in the market
which can solve the above mentioned problem. But amongst the wide choices that
are available, which one is the best and comparatively a healthier option?
Artificial Sweeteners
What is an artificial sweetener?
Artificial sweeteners are
non-nutritive and a better option than the table top sweetener and any
other high - sucrose item. An artificial sweetener does the same job as
your regular sugar, the only difference is, it does not have any nutritive
value to it. Even though it comes across as a great replacement to sugar, it
surely has some adverse side effects.
Side effects of artificial sweetener
Some scientific studies show
these sweeteners have adverse effects such as weight gain, brain tumors, and
bladder cancer in animals. Similar symptoms, including carcinogenic effects
were also found in humans. However, these effects vary from person to person
and also on the type and brand of sweetener that we use. Some sweeteners might
be suitable for human consumption, but under permissible limits, whereas some
won’t.
So, is there any alternative to
this? The answer is YES.
Natural sweeteners
Honey, coconut sugar, Stevia
leaves, maple syrup etc are some of the natural substitutes available in the
market. These not only fulfill your sugar cravings but also have no serious
side effects on health. Although consumption of honey and maple syrup does
increase your blood sugar levels, though on a smaller level. The next best
alternative having almost no side effects is the Stevia leaf.
Benefits of Stevia leaf – Natural Sweetener
Stevia leaves, when consumed in
its true form provide the best experience in terms of taste and health
benefits, as technically it has zero calories and does not increase your blood
sugar levels. The more it is processed, the more its benefits get reduced.
Stevia powder having maximum stevia extract is the next best thing, if you
cannot get Stevia leaves.
Thus, among the various
sweeteners available, we need to weigh the pros and cons of each type before
selecting any particular brand or product.
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