No cuisine is complete without the right balance of sugar and salt and it is safe to say that these are essentials that we cannot eat without. However, as is with most things, there are certain negative side-effects of sugar consumption. Most people are already aware of the various health problems that can be brought on by the excessive consumption of sugar but through force of habit, they are unable to cut down on it. If you are not aware of the numerous adverse effects of sugar consumption concerning your body, here are some factual statements that will tell you why sugar is bad for you:
- Sugar-sweetened food items are loaded with fructose which leads to obesity
- Increased consumption of sugar can lead to the risk of heart diseases
- Studies suggest that sugar consumption can also lead to or aggravate acne problems
- Increases the risk of development of Diabetes Type 2 and can cause fatty liver
- Sugar-loaded diets can cause obesity which can lower insulin resistance and cause cancer
- May lead to depression
- Hastens the skin ageing process
- Contrary to popular belief, may lead to draining of energy over time
Best Sugar Substitutes for a Better and Responsible Living
As it is quite evident, Sugar is a significant part of our meals. It is a major constituent of our everyday consumption. So here are a few great sugar alternatives that make every food that much more palatable without you having to taste worry. Here are 3 of the best sugar alternatives to using in your regular food:
Stevia
These are available in the form of powder, liquid and tablets so whichever you are more comfortable with, you can go for. Stevia is a great alternative to sugar as it is a form of naturally occurring sugar and is derived from the organic Stevia herb which is also commonly known as ‘Meethi Tulsi’. They are zero-calorie sugar substitutes that can be added to your drink, your food and even your dessert and you would never feel the difference. There are quite a few commendable Zevic stevia products in the market that you can opt for. They are made to taste almost the same and do not have the health repercussions that other artificial sweeteners and sugar entails. For example, Stevia tablets are fat-free tablets that are mostly plant-based. They do not have any side effects and do not have any weird aftertaste either. Stevia is a great choice if you are on a weight loss programme.
Jaggery
Probably the most opted for and desired alternative to sugar is jaggery. It has been a part of numerous Indian delicacies and popular desserts and for good reason. Not only do they have an amazingly earthy aftertaste but they are also healthy and that is why it is a really popular choice of dessert topping among the Indian mass. Now, you can find liquid jaggery products as well as powdered ones. Depending on the kind of usage, you can go for either. Made from sugarcane juice molasses, jaggery is generally minimally processed and does not involve bleaching. There are no additives and preservatives in the product which means that it is 100% natural and a great substitute for artificial sweeteners. Not only that, jaggery is beneficial in more ways than one: it is great in treating constipation and helps in improving digestion, it helps in detoxification of the entire body, it cleanses the liver and it is loaded with antioxidants which keep the body healthy.
Honey
It is really difficult to imagine life without honey. It is such a versatile item that it goes well with almost anything and everything. Naturally occurring honey products are generally unprocessed and devoid of any preservatives and additives, which makes them one of the best-suited naturally occurring sweeteners in the market that can serve as an excellent substitute for sugar. Honey has immunity-boosting characteristics which makes it a great item to be included in everyday food. Since it is a naturally occurring sweetener, it has minimal or zero calories that make it a healthy choice for people of all ages and on different kinds of diets. Honey also has mild antiseptic properties. You can have it as a sugar-alternative, to go with your breakfast or as your favourite choice of syrup topping as well (with dessert). Honey is probably one of the best and most sought-after sugar alternatives that you can get.
Since sugar is responsible for deteriorating your physical health (and mental health to a certain extent), stop consumption today and replace it with the aforementioned naturally occurring sweeteners for a healthier lifestyle.
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