7 Healthier alternatives to white sugar

Healthier alternatives to white sugar

The refined white sugar we love has no nutritional property and is responsible for health problems such as diabetes or cardiovascular disease. Removed from its vitamins & minerals, it brings only "empty" calories.

Thankfully, there are many healthier alternatives to satisfy its penchant for sweet sweets. Be careful though, sugar, in whatever form it is, remains a food to eat in moderation.

Honey:
We often hear about honey as the staple food to replace the traditional white sugar on our plates. It is the best known natural alternative to sugar. It is full of vitamins, trace elements and antibacterial, antiseptic and sanitizing properties. Less caloric than sugar, honey has a sweetening power superior to that of traditional sugar.

Coconut sugar:
Coconut sugar comes from the sap of coconut flowers, which, heated until the water evaporates, turns into a slightly brown sugar. Coconut sugar has the advantage of having a very low glycemic index (half less than white sugar) and of being rich in antioxidants, making it possible to fight against the aging of cells. Iron, magnesium, potassium, vitamin B: coconut sugar is also full of vitamins and minerals essential for the proper functioning of our body. Because of its pronounced caramel flavor, it goes well with a number of desserts. You can find coconut sugar in organic shops or on the internet.

Agave syrup:
Agave syrup has a low glycemic index due to its high fructose content and is therefore low in calories. It also has the advantage of having a strong sweetness and a neutral taste that can be used in many culinary preparations. It is also rich in manganese, zinc and vitamin B.

Maple syrup:
Maple syrup contains many nutrients and antioxidants. Its glycemic index (65) is also slightly lower than that of sugar (70). It also provides many essential minerals such as iron, zinc or magnesium. Since its sugars are mainly composed of fructose, it is advisable to consume it in moderation.

Rice syrup:
Obtained from the fermentation of brown rice, rice syrup is rich in vitamins and minerals. It also helps to avoid insulin spikes since it behaves like a slow sugar. It is therefore particularly suitable for people with diabetes.

Xylitol:
Derived from birch sap, xylitol is a sweetener with an extremely low glycemic index and no calories. It would even reduce the risk of cavities by destroying bacteria that attack tooth enamel.

The rapadura:
Rapadura - or unrefined cane sugar - is a sugar that comes directly from the drying of cane juice. It is therefore still fully provided with the nutrients contained in the sap of origin. It is extremely rich in minerals and iron and has a small caramelized taste with a hint of liquorice.