5 Natural Sweeteners that are good for your health

Ditching refined sugar for healthier natural sweeteners can be the new deal for you and your family! Natural sweeteners have a significant role in our food. They originate from fruits, berries and plants. People are preferring natural sweeteners mainly due to their lower caloric values and nutritional benefits as compared to refined sugar containing empty calories. Natural sweeteners give a similar sweetness like sugar. All those who are trying to stay fit without loss of taste and sweetness in their food should opt for natural sweeteners. 

Natural sweeteners have amazing health benefits. They can be a wonderful option of sweeteners for your usual celebrations and can also be added to a regular diet.   

Here is a list of 5 Natural Sweeteners that are good for health

• Raw Fruits – Natural raw fruits are a safe source of sweetness because their potential to increase blood glucose levels, is lower than that of regular or refined sugar.  Fruits that are naturally sweet have low levels of calories and fructose and they taste as sweet as sugar. 
• Stevia– A sweetener obtained from a plant has medical constituents that are considered to have therapeutic action against high BP, inflammation, and tumors.
• Dates – Dates have been the most preferred natural sweetener for  all age groups. They are rich in natural sugars, proteins, fiber, minerals, and vitamins. Dates are considered to be wholesome sources of food. 
• Raw Honey – A natural sweet substance produced by honey bees. It is the secretion of plants that is collected by honey bees and transformed and stored in honeycombs. The antifungal and antibacterial qualities of raw honey help in healing skin issues. It is good for the gut and also has remedial effects in cold and cough.
• Jaggery – One of the most preferred natural sweeteners that is prepared by concentrating the sweet juice of sugarcane or of palm tree. It is preferred by individuals over white sugar for preparation of certain sweet dishes. Jaggery contains proteins, minerals and vitamins. It is also a potent source of iron and has higher iron and copper contents than refined sugar (Ref: FSSAI).

Take home message – Sweetness in foods has a special place for people and if it is through healthier and natural sweeteners, then it’s an added advantage. The results will be surprising and actually healthier for you!