In a previous post I talked about the various names and dangers of a high intake of sugar in our bodies (https://becomepowerful.com/2018/02/01/sugar-by-any-other-name/ ). It bears repeating that added hidden sugars should be avoided as much as possible. So where should you turn? Sugar substitutions seem to be a “no brainier” right? Processed sugar leads to higher calorie intake, weight gain, heart disease, cardiovascular disease…artificial sweeteners are zero calorie! So I’ll lose weight, avoid Type 2 Diabetes and all the above. Right? Sadly no, that is not the case.
Regrettably, more and more research has shown that the use of artificial sweeteners have the exact opposite effect on our bodies. Studies have shown that those who consume high amounts of diet drinks per week are twice as likely to become overweight and obese compared to those who don’t. These non-nutritive sweeteners are found in so many of our daily consumed foods that we are regularly taking them in without even knowing it. Since they are far more potent than sugar, the more we use consume, the less likely we are to enjoy naturally sweetened foods (like fruit). Which leads to less fruit intake.
There are 6 FDA approved artificial sweeteners: aspartame, sucrulose, neotame, saccharin, Ace-K and advantame. However, the most frequently known come in the little yellow, blue and pink packets: Splenda, Sucrolose, Equal, Aspartame, Sweet-n-Low, and Saccharin.
Here are four of the top dangers of Artificial Sweeteners:
1. Weight Gain
2. Increase Type 2 Diabetes
3. Increase risk of Metabolic Syndrome
4. Hypertension and Cardiovascular Disease
Sounds familiar right? These are some of the things we believe we are avoiding and combating by using the sugar substitutes! So the more complete message should really be to avoid processed hidden sugars and all artificial sweeteners. Enjoy the sweetness by Keeping It Real! Use the real, natural, unprocessed and healthier options.
Here are a few of my favorite all natural sugar substitutes:
1. Molasses
2. Stevia
3. Raw Honey
4. Mejole dates
5.Maple Syrup
These substitutes should still be consumed in healthy amounts to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Just remember to avoid the processed sugar, artificial sweeteners. Keep the real stuff and EAT WELL!!
