Sugar Free Sweeteners-Good Or Bad
Obesity and diabetes are the two major reasons for anybody to start searching for a substitute for sugar, which is the real cause of these two maladies. From early twentieth century, many sugar substitutes have been in the market and many a mysteries hovering around these products. What we are trying here is to bring into the lime light certain facts and truths about these sugar substitutes. This may also help to minimize the confusion in choosing the right sugar substitute.
Saccharin:
It came in to the market during the early 1900s and is considered the oldest of artificial sweeteners. Though some scientists certify it as safe, it has failed to be a perfect choice for cooking and baking. The metallic taste it leaves behind has also made it loose many consumers.
From the very introduction of this artificial sweetener, its regular use has been accused of being the cause of many illnesses such as cancer, multiple sclerosis epilepsy, migraine etc. Though research on this is still on, its popularity is becoming low due to the fear of its side effects.
Aspartame:
Aspartame is another artificial sweetener that has been in the market since 80s. It is marketed under various brand names such as Equal, Equal Measure, Nutra Sweet and Spoonful. It is 200 times sweeter than sugar, and has thus gained popularity.
Setiva:
Stevia is a plant based sugar substitute. Though it’s been in use only for over a decade, it is used mostly in preparation of in low-cab and low sugar foods, meant for obesity and high blood sugar patients. Results show that it has a positive effect on the patients. Another quality of Stevia is that it does not cause sudden variation in the blood sugar levels.
Sucralose:
This is sugar substitute which has certain superior qualities. It remains stable when heated and has a compositional structure that remains unaltered even under varying chemical combinations. These qualities have made it the best, for cooking and baking.
When used for cooking, only a small quantity is needed to sweeten foods and drinks. Also its resemblance to regular sugar adds to its commercial value. Navella, Splenda and Sucra Plus are some of the brand names for this sugar substitute.
Though 100 % safety is not guaranteed, everyone believes that consumption of the substitute sweetener in small quantities is acceptable. But as we all know too much of anything – irrespective of how good or healthy it may be is certainly not recommended.
