What Sweeteners are in Lily's Chocolate?
Lily's chocolate achieves its sweet flavor without using any refined sugar by incorporating a combination of non-nutritive and low-calorie sweeteners. The primary sweeteners used are stevia extract and erythritol.
Stevia
Stevia is a zero-calorie, botanical sweetener derived from the plant Stevia rebaudiana. It is significantly sweeter than table sugar, so only a small amount is needed. In Lily's products, stevia provides the bulk of the intense sweet flavor. As a plant-based sweetener, it is not considered a refined sugar.
Erythritol
Erythritol is a sugar alcohol found naturally in some fruits. It provides a clean, mild sweetness with virtually no calories. It is often listed before stevia in the ingredients, which some interpret to mean it is the primary sweetener by volume. Erythritol, along with other ingredients like chicory root fiber, contributes to the chocolate's mouthfeel and flavor profile.
Other Sweeteners
Some Lily's products, particularly older recipes or specific items like the milk chocolate, may also contain other ingredients that contribute to sweetness or texture, including isomalt and chicory root fiber (inulin). Both are types of low-digestible carbohydrates that add bulk and a mild sweetness.
Is Lily's Chocolate Healthy?
While Lily's offers a refined sugar-free alternative, its health profile is not without nuance. For individuals on ketogenic or low-carb diets, the low net carb count makes it an appealing option. However, some health organizations and studies urge caution with non-sugar sweeteners (NSS).
Potential Side Effects
- Digestive Issues: Consuming large quantities of sugar alcohols like erythritol can lead to digestive discomfort, including gas, bloating, and diarrhea in some sensitive individuals.
- Cardiovascular Concerns: Some studies, though limited and observational, have linked high levels of erythritol to an increased risk of heart attack and stroke, especially in those with pre-existing risk factors.
- Gut Health Impact: Some non-sugar sweeteners may disrupt the balance of healthy gut bacteria, although more human studies are needed.
For an authoritative perspective, the World Health Organization (WHO) advises against the long-term use of non-sugar sweeteners for weight control, citing concerns about potential increased risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Consumers are encouraged to choose unsweetened products with naturally occurring sugars, such as fruit, to reduce their sugar intake.
Lily's vs. Other Refined Sugar-Free Chocolates
| Feature | Lily's | ChocZero | Evolved | Hu Kitchen |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Sweeteners | Stevia & Erythritol | Monk Fruit Extract | Unrefined Coconut Sugar / Monk Fruit (for keto) | Unrefined Coconut Sugar |
| Sweetener Category | Botanical & Sugar Alcohol | Botanical | Plant-based & Botanical | Natural Sugar |
| Added Sugar Free? | Yes | Yes | Yes, but some varieties contain coconut sugar | No, sweetened with unrefined coconut sugar |
| Keto Friendly? | Yes | Yes | Keto options available | No, contains natural sugar from coconut |
| Potential Side Effects | Digestive issues from sugar alcohols | Generally fewer digestive issues | Minimal, but some fiber content can be high | Contains sugar, not keto |
| Unique Feature | Widely available, range of flavors | Uses monk fruit, no sugar alcohols | Focus on organic, unrefined ingredients | Sweetened with coconut sugar |
Conclusion
Lily's chocolate is an excellent option for those seeking a refined sugar free treat, primarily sweetened with stevia and erythritol. It is particularly well-suited for individuals following low-carb or ketogenic diets due to its low net carb count. However, consumers should be mindful of the presence of sugar alcohols like erythritol, which can cause digestive issues in some people and have been linked to potential cardiovascular risks in certain studies. For those sensitive to sugar alcohols, other brands using monk fruit or other natural sweeteners might be a better choice. As with any dietary choice, moderation is key, and it is always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional regarding the suitability of alternative sweeteners for your specific health needs. For more information on non-sugar sweeteners, you can read the latest guidance from the World Health Organization.
Important Considerations
- Read the Label: Always check the ingredients list to see the specific sweeteners used in each product, as recipes can vary.
- Moderation is Key: While free of refined sugar, Lily's products still contain calories and fats and should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
- Monitor Personal Tolerance: Pay attention to how your body reacts to erythritol and other sugar alcohols to avoid potential digestive discomfort.
- Consult a Professional: If you have diabetes or other health concerns, discuss the use of alternative sweeteners with a healthcare provider.
Key Takeaways
- Refined Sugar Free: Lily's chocolate contains zero refined sugar, relying on alternative sweeteners instead.
- Primary Sweeteners: The main sweeteners are stevia (a botanical extract) and erythritol (a sugar alcohol).
- Keto and Low-Carb Friendly: Due to its no-sugar-added formula, Lily's is a popular choice for ketogenic and low-carb diets.
- Potential Side Effects: The sugar alcohols and fibers can cause digestive discomfort in some individuals, especially in large amounts.
- Sweetness vs. Volume: While stevia provides the intense sweetness, erythritol often makes up a larger volume of the sweetener blend.
- Expert Caution: Health organizations like the WHO advise caution with non-sugar sweeteners for long-term health and weight control.
Resources
- The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued guidelines on non-sugar sweeteners.
