Sugar substitutes include natural and artificial options to reduce calories or manage blood sugar. Here's a quick overview:
Natural sweeteners:
- Stevia: Plant-based, zero calories, doesn't raise blood sugar.
- Monk fruit: Similar to stevia, antioxidant-rich, zero calories.
- Honey or maple syrup: Natural sugars, but still caloric (use sparingly).
- Fruit purees (e.g., applesauce, dates): Add natural sweetness in baking.
Artificial/low-calorie:
- Aspartame: Common in diet sodas, very sweet but avoid if phenylketonuria.
- Sucralose (Splenda): Heat-stable for cooking, zero calories.
- Saccharin: Oldest substitute, found in Sweet'N Low.
- Erythritol/xylitol: Sugar alcohols, low calorie, good for baking but can cause digestive issues in excess.
Best choice depends on needs—consult a doctor for diabetes. For details, check Cleveland Clinic's guide on sweeteners.