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Healthier, Here are 6 Natural Sweeteners as a Substitute for Granulated Sugar for Making Cakes

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Healthier, Here are 6 Natural Sweeteners as a Substitute for Granulated Sugar for Making Cakes Illustration (credit: freepik)

Kapanlagi.com - Who doesn't like sweet foods and drinks? It seems that everyone likes them. In fact, many people believe that sweet foods and drinks can improve mood. Until now, granulated sugar has been the most commonly used ingredient to add sweetness to food. However, there are still several other natural sweeteners besides granulated sugar.

In the body, sugar is needed for energy reserves. However, consuming too much sugar can lead to diabetes. Well, one way to overcome this is by using natural sweeteners that are healthier and safer. So, what are some sweeteners that are safer and healthier than granulated sugar?

Compiled from various sources, here are some natural sweeteners as a substitute for granulated sugar.

 

1. Stevia Leaves

Stevia leaves are one of the healthiest natural substitutes for granulated sugar. Although originating from South America, stevia leaves are now widely cultivated in Indonesia. In addition, there are already many extract products from the plant called Stevia rebaudiana available in the market.

As reported by healthline.com, stevia leaves are considered healthy because they contain zero calories. However, stevia leaves have a stronger sweet taste compared to granulated sugar. In fact, stevia leaves can be 350 times sweeter than regular sugar. So, besides being healthier, stevia leaves are also relatively more economical.

2. Palm Sugar

Palm sugar, also often referred to as brown sugar or Javanese sugar, is also considered healthier than granulated sugar. This is because palm sugar not only provides sweetness but also contains a number of nutrients needed by the body. In palm sugar, there are several nutrients such as iron, zinc, calcium, potassium, and antioxidants. 

3. Honey

Besides being known for its sweetness, honey is also known to have many health benefits. Honey has been quite popularly used as a sweetener for several dishes. Just like coconut sugar, honey also contains good nutrients for the body, including vitamins and minerals, as well as many antioxidants.

Several studies also suggest that consuming honey can provide a number of benefits. Honey is believed to prevent various deadly diseases, ranging from diabetes, heart disease, to cancer. That is why honey is included as one of the highly recommended natural sugar substitutes.

4. Dates

Dates are a typical Middle Eastern fruit that is quite popular in Indonesia. Often appearing during the month of Ramadan, dates are famous for their sweet and rich taste. Many people say that dates have a taste similar to caramel. Like most fruits, dates also contain vitamins and good nutrients for the body.

Its strong sweetness makes dates suitable to be used as a sweetener substitute for sugar. Moreover, there are now many packaged date extracts available in the market. So, not only are they sweet and healthy, but also very convenient.

5. Maple Syrup

The name maple syrup may still be unfamiliar among the Indonesian people. However, this sweet syrup can be an alternative natural sweetener to replace sugar. Maple syrup is made from the sap of maple trees. In addition to being sweet, maple syrup also contains many antioxidants. In fact, it is said to contain more antioxidants than honey.

Although it is considered healthier than granulated sugar, the amount of maple syrup consumed still needs to be considered. This is because maple syrup still contains a relatively high amount of sugar. However, its low glycemic index can slow down the increase in blood sugar. As a result, the increase in blood sugar does not occur rapidly.

6. Bananas

Sweet-tasting bananas can also be used as a sugar substitute. Bananas are suitable for adding sweetness to soft-textured foods such as oatmeal, jam, or even cake batter. In addition to being sweet, bananas also contain many nutrients, including potassium, vitamin C, magnesium, fiber, and vitamin B6.

The method is quite simple, you can blend the bananas. To achieve a smoother and more liquid texture, you can add one tablespoon of water.

Those are some natural sweeteners that can replace sugar. You can use them for a healthier lifestyle. By doing so, you can feel more at ease when consuming sweet foods or drinks.

(kpl/psp)

Disclaimer: This translation from Bahasa Indonesia to English has been generated by Artificial Intelligence.
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