- Stevia. This plant-derived sweetener is non-caloric and can be used in baking or cooking but needs to be diluted before using. I occasionally recommend it for diabetics and those who can’t tolerate sugar.
- Honey. While it has some antioxidant properties, honey is not necessarily healthier than white sugar, mainly because it can stick to teeth and contribute to cavity formation. However, honey does have more fructose than sugar, which causes less stress on the pancreas. Use sparingly, for flavor, and opt for 100 percent honey or raw honey rather than processed versions. Always try to use less than a recipe calls for to cut down your sugar intake.
- Splenda (sucralose). This artificial sweetener is 600 times sweeter than sugar. It is not all-natural, being derived only in part from sugar, and while it is FDA approved and appears safe, it has not proven itself to be beneficial in losing weight. The reason may be tied to the tongue sensing the sweetness and triggering some of the same weight-gaining hormones as if it were the real thing.
- Aspartame and Saccharine. These artificial sweeteners are found in some foods and are available to add to drinks and some foods. For the same concerns as Splenda, I do not recommend either of these – if you want to cut calories or are diabetic, I suggest stevia instead.
- Sugar alcohols like erythritol and xylitol. These have become more and more popular in foods and drinks. While large studies have not been done, the ones that have suggest these to be safe and have no impact on blood sugar. In practice, it seems some people may get digestive bloating with these sweeteners, so I recommend moderate use when needed but avoid heavy reliance on them.
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source:https://www.drweil.com/blog/health-tips/is-honey-healthier-than-sugar-4-sweeteners-and-what-they-offer/
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