Sweet Alternatives
We've agreed that white sugar is harmful, so what should we consume instead?
- אליהו שכטר
- פורסם כ"ג חשון התשע"ד
#VALUE!
Last week, we briefly mentioned the disadvantages of white sugar. However, our world is so accustomed to using white sugar that it can be difficult to give it up in many cases. Therefore, it's worth noting some alternatives that can replace white sugar so we can enjoy sweetness but consume it in a less harmful way.
Before we mention a few of them, I would like to make a general and important note regarding the consumption of sweeteners. The sweet taste on our tables is very diverse and strong. Human nature is such that the more sweet things one eats, over time, one desires more and more of it, and indeed the food industry provides this in increasing abundance. Over time, our taste and sensitivity dull, and we consume more and more sweetness. If we wish to be healthy, it is appropriate to be mindful of this. Rather than getting used to more and more sweetness, we should decide to use less sweet things, both in quantity and intensity. We should adopt as a way of life the sufficiency with the sweetness that comes to us through fruits and different foods, which are always healthier and more nutritious, and gradually give up processed sweets. There are many varied replacements for white sugar that are tasty and healthy:
Dried Dates and Raisins - Recently, a study conducted at Rambam Hospital, by Prof. Michael Aviram, found that dates from the Medjool and Halawi varieties not only do not raise blood sugar levels, but consuming 100 grams of them daily contributes to heart protection in several ways, such as reducing blood fat levels. They can be eaten as a sweetener with hot beverages. Also tasty as a treat with nuts or almonds (not roasted).
Silan (Date Honey) - Extracted from dates as a thick liquid. It has the benefits of dates but can also be added to hot drinks where it dissolves like sugar.
Bee Honey - Well-known to all and no need to elaborate.
Stevia - A miracle plant. On one hand, its taste is very sweet (300 times sweeter than sugar), and on the other hand, it helps lower sugar for diabetics. It can sweeten hot drinks and even pastries.
Agave Syrup - The agave is a cactus growing in South America. It is used to produce syrup three times sweeter than regular white sugar. Therefore, only a small amount is needed to sweeten food or drinks. It can be suitable for diabetics, but it should be used moderately since excessive use can raise blood fat levels. It can be used to sweeten drinks and baking.
