Why not do your body a favor and try some natural sweeteners instead? They can boost your natural health by adding not only a little bit of energy, but also some vitamins and minerals. Here are five natural sweeteners that you may not have considered when it comes time for a little sweetness in your diet.
- Coconut sugar is made from the sap of coconut trees in much the same way maple syrup is made. Unrefined coconut sugar is rich in antioxidants and phytonutrients that could boost your nutritional health and protect you from hypertension and diabetes.
- Licorice is syrup made from the roots of “Glycyrrhiza glabra” plants. Licorice helps your body cope with stress, balances sex hormones, and supports your adrenal glands. Licorice naturally raises blood pressure, so if you suffer from low pressure you may find this sweetener particularly helpful. If you suffer from hypertension, get your doctor’s advice before you consume licorice.
- Stevia is a natural sweetener made from a plant that grows in South America. In its whole, raw state, this sweetener is antibiotic and anti-fungal. This makes it a good choice for those worried about an overgrowth of Candida. Stevia is also considered to be anti-inflammatory and safe for diabetics.
- Brown rice syrup is made from a combination of sprouted and pre-cooked grains that are cooked together. The resulting syrup has a pleasing butterscotch taste that also contains some vitamins and minerals.
- Raw honey contains no added white sugar. It is taken directly from the beehive and is full of minerals, vitamins and phytonutrients. Raw honey contains B2, B6, iron, manganese, enzymes, and amino acids. Like stevia, raw honey is also antibiotic and antifungal.