5 healthy substitutes for white sugar to live a healthy lifestyle

From cakes to mithais, sugar is mostly used in every sweet dish. While we enjoy the sweetness of white sugar, we often forget the side effects associated with it. If we go by the studies, white sugar is a highly processed item and is associated with obesity, excess belly fat, diabetes, and heart disease. From causing cancer to reducing tissue elasticity, crystal cubes are the source of many health issues that one can easily avoid by saying no to white sugar. It can also cause depression, dementia, liver disease, and certain types of cancer. Hence, it is suggested to avoid excessive intake of white sugar. Keeping the same in view, Dr. Rohini Patil, MBBS, Nutritionist, and CEO of Nutracy Lifestyle suggests some healthy alternatives for white sugar that are equally flavourful. (Image: istock)

Stevia is natural, unlike other sugar substances which are made from the leaves of the stevia plant. It contains zero calories and is much sweeter than sugar. Replacing sugar with stevia can help in preventing weight gain and reduce blood sugar levels. For people having diabetes, stevia proves to be great. Have it throughout the day so that carbs may add up. (Image: istock)

Dates are one of the best natural sweeteners. They are a source of fructose, which means a natural type of sugar found in fruit. Dates are high in fiber, nutrients, potassium, iron, and magnesium which helps in building proteins in the body, and fiber benefits in your digestive system by preventing constipation. They are not only nutritious but delicious too, which means it’s easy and simple to have and include in your diet. (Image: istock)

Honey is rich in calories and contains important minerals and vitamins like calcium, potassium, vitamin C, B1, B2, B3, B5, and B6. It has also a lower GI value than sugar and includes antibacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. Compounds of honey like polyphenols help in modulating inflammation in the body. It can also finish fungus and unwanted bacteria. As honey is very sweet so you may require it less in comparison to white sugar. You can also have honey for easing coughing and sore throats. (Image: istock)

Also Read: What is refined sugar, and how bad is it for you?

Jaggery has more nutrients than sugar because of its molasses content. Now you might be thinking what is Molasses? It is a nutritious by-product of the process of sugar making, which is often removed when making refined sugar. Additionally, it also maintains the electrolyte balance and helps in preventing water retention because of its potassium content. (Image: istock)

As compared to white sugar, brown sugar is less in calories. It consists of various micronutrients like calcium, iron, zinc, potassium, phosphorus, copper, and vitamin B-6, which are very important for a healthy functioning body. The molasses present in brown sugar can help in boosting metabolism. (Image: istock)

With inputs from IANS

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