NATURAL SUGAR SUBSTITUTES FOR HEALTH AND WELLNESS
August 29th, 2008
Sugar, in various forms, is the body’s primary energy source. To maintain health, sugars and sweeteners should be chosen that are derived from whole foods rather than sugars that have been concentrated and refined, like white sugar.
When derived from whole foods, sugars contain a balance of enzymes and minerals which aid in breaking them down into a healthful source of energy for the body. Concentrated or refined sugars contain an imbalance in these essential enzymes and minerals.
Refined and concentrated forms of sugar create an acidic environment that depletes the body’s mineral supplies, pass quickly into the bloodstream and can have adverse health effects on the body’s organs.
Refined white sugar, in excessive amounts in the diet, can displace other more healthful dietary nutrients and can lead to health problems such as diabetes, anemia, high blood pressure, hypoglycemia, tooth decay, obesity, bone loss, and heart disease. Excessive intake of white sugar can also cause irritability, nervousness and moodiness.
Decreasing intake of refined sugar products gradually over an extended time span can reduce occurrence of sugar withdrawal symptoms (energy loss, overeating, anxiety, and depression). Consuming fresh fruits and vegetables that contain natural sweetness can also reduce refined sugar cravings.
Foods that contain corn syrup, refined white or brown sugar and other forms of processed sugar should be eliminated from the diet. Natural sugars, such as those found in rice syrup, barley malt, concentrated fruit juice, and molasses are acceptable to include in the diet in moderate amounts.
Artificial sweeteners, in products ranging from sodas to breakfast cereals, are widely used. Although FDA approved, the safety of sugar substitutes has not been fully determined. Avoid any forms of artificial sweeteners, as they have a synthetic chemical composition that can cause negative health effects.
A natural concentrated sugar that can be used in moderation is raw honey. Raw honey contains a variety of flavonoids and phenolic acids which act as antioxidants, scavenging and eliminating free radicals. Daily consumption of raw honey raises blood levels of protective antioxidant compounds. Raw honey is a healthy sweetener for individuals with high cholesterol or type 2 diabetes.
For those concerned about weight maintenance, stevia, a natural sweetener derived from the Stevia rebaudiana herb, contains no calories. Stevia’s main characteristic is its sweet taste, which is due to non-caloric molecules known as glycosides. Individuals who cannot tolerate sugar or other sweeteners can include stevia in their diet. Research has shown that stevia whole leaf concentrate can aid in stabilizing blood sugar levels and has a regulating effect on the pancreas. Diabetics and individuals with hypoglycemia can safely use stevia as a natural sugar substitute.
For information about natural foods for health and wellness call Dr. Richard Browne, Acupuncture Physician, at (305) 595-9500.
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