The Best Sugar Substitutions For Your Diet

It is an unfortunate fact that the average American diet has way too much sugar in it. While yes, it is important to get a steady intake of natural glucose, many of us could afford to cut back on refined sugar, which is different from natural glucose, even if we have learned to like our meals sweetened.

With dozens of sugar substitutes and alternatives on the market today, you don’t have to look very far to find a healthier way to sweeten your drinks and meals. According to an article by Women's Health, here are the best substitutes for sugar for your specific diet.

Honey

Delicious and so versatile that I think it should be put first on this list for good reason. Not only does it add a natural sweet taste to your tea, baked goods, and oatmeal, but it’s loaded with antioxidants for an added healthy boost. You can use it in overnight oats or overnight chia pudding to improve the taste of your favorite breakfasts, or you can even drizzle it atop spinach or baby kale alongside your favorite salad dressings.

Agave

Virtually unheard of just a decade or so ago, yet it’s quickly becoming a pantry staple in many houses, mine included. Records show that humans have been using it as far back as the ancient Aztec period, so you know it’s great to use. It tastes similar to honey, making it great to add to tea, but it does have a higher glucose content, so use this one in moderation.

In case the name doesn’t give it away for you, brown rice syrup is extracted from brown rice. Thankfully, it has lower glucose levels than high fructose corn syrup. Try adding this natural sweetener to nutty breads and bars when baking at home.

Chocolate

There is good news for all the chocolate lovers out there. Yes, you can eat chocolate without being horribly unhealthy. Just be sure to use cocoa powder that’s unsweetened (it’s usually right next to the sweetened version in stores, so make sure that you pick the right one). You can add the power to smoothies or shakes, or even mix it with hot skim milk for a healthier way to eat chocolate.

Surprisingly enough, maple syrup can be relatively good for your diet. Just be sure to use real maple syrup, since you’ll be getting the antioxidants that come with the sap that comes straight from trees. It tastes great on whole grain waffles or pancakes.

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