Tag: Sugar alternative

In a 2023 study published in *News-Medical.net*, research on animal models suggested that substituting refined sugar with maple syrup might offer some metabolic benefits. But beyond these preliminary findings, is Grade A maple syrup good for you, or is it just another sugar with a better marketing campaign?

According to health experts, plain carbonated water is a calorie-free beverage that is just as hydrating as still water, making it a viable daily option. However, the question of whether sparkling water is good to drink every day depends heavily on the specific product and your body's individual reaction to it.

First isolated in the late 19th century, xylitol is a sugar substitute known for its low glycemic index and dental health benefits. For those asking, "What is another name for xylitol sugar?", the most common term is birch sugar.

Archaeological documents from ancient Mesopotamia confirm date syrup was used as a primary sweetener, predating many modern alternatives. Today, this minimally processed, rich caramel-colored liquid is valued for its unique flavor and the impressive nutritional benefits of date syrup.

According to research, the glycemic index of palm sugar is approximately 35-40, significantly lower than the 60-65 GI of white sugar. This key difference lies at the heart of the question: is panakarkandu healthier than sugar? This article explores the nutritional profiles, processing methods, and health implications of both sweeteners to uncover the truth.

For centuries, the combination of milk and jaggery has been a staple in many traditional cultures, often revered for its wholesome qualities. Mixing this unrefined, mineral-rich sweetener with a nutrient-dense dairy base leads to a beverage with enhanced nutritional potential, but it's important to understand the full health implications of what happens if we mix jaggery with milk.

Manna sugar is the dried, crystallized sap from the bark of the manna ash tree, a harvesting tradition that has existed in Mediterranean regions like Sicily for centuries. This natural exudate, known simply as 'manna,' is composed of D-mannitol and has been valued for generations for both culinary and medicinal purposes.

While rice syrup has fewer calories per tablespoon than granulated sugar, it also has a higher glycemic index (GI), causing a quicker spike in blood sugar levels. This complex relationship means a direct one-to-one swap isn't always the best approach and requires careful consideration of the recipe.

A recent study showed that taste perception of non-nutritive sweeteners varies widely among individuals, influenced by genetics and tastebud sensitivity. While both are sweet, the flavor profile of stevia is distinctively different from that of regular table sugar.

Studies have shown that consuming around two tablespoons of honey a day alongside a healthy diet may improve cholesterol levels, specifically reducing 'bad' LDL cholesterol and triglycerides while increasing 'good' HDL cholesterol. However, like all sugars, honey should be consumed in moderation.