​Sweeten smart: 8 healthier alternatives to refined sugar

Sep 26, 2024

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Healthier alternatives to sugar

Minimising the intake of refined sugar and opting for healthier alternatives can lower health risks and enhance overall well-being. Here are some natural alternatives to refined sugar that you can use.

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Honey

Rich in antioxidants and nutrients, honey is a natural sweetener with anti-inflammatory properties.

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Coconut sugar

Made from the sap of coconut palms, coconut sugar contains small amounts of vitamins and minerals and has a lower glycemic index which makes it a good alternative to refined sugar.

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​Dates

High in fibre, vitamins and minerals, dates can be used as whole or made into a paste for sweetening, making them ideal for desserts, smoothies and sauces.

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Fruit purees

Applesauce, mashed bananas and other fruit purees can naturally sweeten baked goods while adding fibre and nutrients.

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Maple syrup

A great source of antioxidants and minerals like zinc and manganese, maple syrup has a lower glycemic index than sugar.

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Molasses

A byproduct of sugarcane processing, molasses is packed with iron, calcium and other minerals.

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Agave syrup

Extracted from the agave plant, agave syrup is sweeter than sugar and has a low glycemic index, though it’s high in fructose.

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Stevia

Derived from the stevia plant, stevia it’s a zero-calorie sweetener with no effect on blood sugar levels.

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