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There are many sugar substitutes available for those who cannot consume sugar. Saccharin, aspartame, Acesulfame-K, cyclamate, and sucralose are popular options, each with their own benefits and drawbacks. It is important to consult a doctor before using these products regularly.
For many people, sugar in coffee or baked goods isn’t an option. This may be due to weight observation or health issues. Fortunately, there are a variety of sugar substitutes on the market to choose from. Knowing the different types of sugar substitutes can help you choose the best product for your lifestyle.
Saccharin – The star ingredient in the popular pink packets of “Sweet N Low,” saccharin is one of the best-known sugar substitutes. Saccharin was popular years ago, but when it was concluded that lab mice developed cancer after using this artificial sweetener, it fell out of favor. While rats may have had unfavorable side effects, this has not been shown to be the case in humans. It’s not recommended for pregnant or nursing women, however. Saccharin can be used to sweeten drinks at all temperatures and can be used in place of sugar in recipes.
Aspartame: Aspartame can be recognized as the product contained in the blue package with “Nutra Sweet” printed on the front. Once saccharin started to lose its sheen, aspartame gained popularity. While aspartame might be popular in diet sodas, coffee and tea, it’s not recommended for cooking as it can lose its flavor after being exposed to heat for any length of time. Adding it to foods once they stop cooking, however, is fine.
Acesulfame-K – Also known as “Ace-K,” this sugar substitute is actually two hundred times sweeter than sugar! This sweetener should be used in moderation. Ace-K is fine for baking, just use it sparingly.
Cyclamate – This is the sugar substitute used by weight watchers. It is great for cooking and baking. It’s sweeter than sugar, about ten times as sweet, so keep that in mind when opening a package of “Sugar Twin.”
Sucralose: Sucralose comes in a yellow packet of “Splenda.” Splenda is gaining popularity not only because it’s made from sugar, so it tastes like sugar, but because it measures the same size as sugar, making it more convenient for cooking than other sugar substitutes. Sucralose is six hundred times sweeter than sugar, so if you don’t use brand name Splenda, you’ll have to do some math to figure out how much to add to your baking.
Most of the above sugar substitutes have been approved by the FDA as safe for use by diabetics. Those who are diabetic, pregnant or lactating will probably find it in their best interest to consult their doctors before using these products on a regular basis.
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