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7. Healthy Alternatives to Swap your Sugar With

Sugar cravings are only natural, but what isn't is the refined sugar you're feeding that urge with. Make the smarter choice with these natural sweeteners.

Quarantine has brought out the inner chef in all of us. If baking and sweet savories is your thing, it's no new feat its effects can be devastating on anyone's body inside and out.

Sugar is an empty calorie that results in weight gain and belly fat which is associated with the risk of diseases especially heart disease. Sugar can give you wrinkles and add age to your face. It is associated with acne and blocks leptin and raise insulin. Also, it increases the risk of developing certain cancers as it spikes insulin which is a key factor behind the multiplication and growth of cells. It ruins teeth as it destroys the healthy bacteria in the mouth and is scientifically as addictive as drugs.

However, this doesn't need to frighten you to stop eating sweets. You can still feed your sweet tooth with some healthy substitute sugars with natural sweetness. Here are some of the best choices:

Jaggery

Jaggery is made from sugarcane juice which contains plenty of nutrients. Many problems can be cured with the medicinal properties of jaggery. It's good for common cold, menstrual cramps, migraine pain, strengthen bones and muscles, and prevents respiratory problems. It also flushes out toxins, making you burn more calories and purifies the blood and improves haemoglobin level. It has a high level of potassium which helps to improve metabolism. Having jaggery will improve the digestion process in the body. It is also called gud in India. You can make dishes like laddu, pedas, halwa, gujiya, cake etc using jaggery.

Dates

Dates are known as khajur in India. They are free from cholesterol and contain very low fat. They are rich in vitamins and minerals. They are a rich source of dietary fibre, protein and rich in vitamin B1, B2, B3 and B5 with vitamin A1 and C. It also helps to improve digestive systems it contains soluble and insoluble fibres and different kinds of amino acids. They are great energy boosters and low in calories which is suitable for health-conscious people. It has high iron content which is useful in treating amenia and is healthy for diabetic patients as well. It also helps to slow down the process of tooth decay. You can make dates syrup and use as a substitute of sugar for making sweets.

Honey

Since ancient times, honey has been used as both medicine and food. It is particularly healthy when used instead of refined sugar. It prevents cancer and heart disease and contains antioxidants to reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer. Honey may help in disorders such as ulcers and bacterial gastroenteritis. Honey also includes anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties that reduce throat and cough irritation. You can use honey for making cookies, cakes, candies, muffins, pancakes, halwa etc.

Raisins

Raisins are made by sun-drying different types of grapes. They come up with many health benefits and are a healthy choice for munching purpose. They contain rich amountsof iron which helps in the treatment of anaemia. Raisins are good for digestion and can help in relieving constipation and are a source of potassium and magnesium that helps to reduce acidity. Raisins prevent cancer, protect eyes and help to treat infections. Also, they include calcium which prevents teeth from breakage. They are healthy for hair and skin as well. Raisins are known as kishmish in India. You can make halwa, laddoos, barfi, cakes etc using raisins.

They're easy to use and have no side effects on the body. Time for some sweet and healthy indulgence! Disclaimer: This article is authored by Payal Rangar, certified nutritionist and weight-loss consultant based in New Delhi. The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author’s and do not represent those of GlobalSpa.

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