Are Natural Sweeteners Actually Healthy?
People are becoming increasingly concerned about the amount of sugar they are consuming as well as the large number of artificial sweeteners that are being put into the food chain. As a result, the focus has shifted to trying to find the “holy grail” of sweeteners, which is one that is both natural and healthy.
The problem is that something that appears to be healthy could not be at all, and something that has a reputation for being unhealthy might actually be beneficial to your health.
Honey
Honey is inherently sweet, and the fact that it comes from beehives means that it is completely unprocessed. It is true that it has a lower glycemic index (GI) than table sugar (55 vs 70), but when you eat it, it has a big influence on your blood sugar, making you perhaps more likely to crave sweet things. Because of this, use it in moderation.
Agave
Agave has a flavor that is comparable to honey, yet its glycemic index is just 15. It is made from the cactus plant and may be utilized in the same manner as honey; however, it is vital to keep in mind that it contains more calories per 100 grams (310 compared to 250), so use it with caution.
Corn
Corn has been given a negative reputation as a result of high fructose corn syrup, which is a natural sweetener that has grown so prevalent in the food business that it is now being considered the most likely cause of the obesity epidemic in the United States. This syrup is made from corn.
Consuming corn as part of a healthy diet is possible so long as it is consumed in moderation. It tastes fantastic when it is eaten straight from the cob with a pat of butter. It is delicious when popped in the air and served with a sprinkle of cheese or chocolate chips for a sweet treat. This method produces the best results. According to a number of studies, pop corn contains one of the greatest quantities of disease-fighting antioxidants that can be found in any food. In point of fact, it is claimed to have two times the amount of blueberries.
Corn cobs are ground up and combined with other ingredients to produce xylitol, a natural sugar alternative that is commonly used in sugar-free gum. In addition to its function as a thickening, corn starch is sometimes added to recipes so that they have a sweeter flavor.
Corn meal, often known as ground corn, is the key ingredient in mouthwatering dishes like corn bread and corn pudding. Cornbread baked at home has the potential to be a nutritious sweet or savory treat, provided that it is not loaded down with sugar, salt, and sauce.
Corn is a naturally sweet food, but as with anything else, you should eat it in moderation so as not to spoil its flavor.
No matter which option you decide on, keep in mind that the objective is to expend more calories than you ingest at any one time. Aim for a balanced diet, get plenty of exercise, and indulge in sweets only occasionally. Then see how much of a change it may bring about in your physical well-being.
