Feb 11 • 08:31 UTC 🇪🇪 Estonia ERR

Nutritionist: There are no healthy alternatives to sugar

Külli Holsting, a nutritionist, argues that all sugar substitutes raise blood sugar levels and should be consumed in moderation.

In a recent discussion on the Estonian program "Terevisioon", nutritionist Külli Holsting emphasized that there are no truly healthy alternatives to sugar. She analyzed various sweeteners including honey, white sugar, and artificial sweeteners, pointing out that they all increase blood sugar levels, albeit some more slowly than others. Holsting warns that the concept of healthy sweeteners is misleading, and moderation is key to any sugar consumption.

Holsting demonstrated her points by showcasing sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, date syrup, stevia, agave syrup, and carob powder on the studio table. While she acknowledged that artificial sugars do not spike blood sugar levels, she cautioned that even they can mislead the brain into craving more sweetness. This behavioral aspect signifies the complexity of our relationship with sugar, which makes some people believe that artificial sweeteners are a safer choice.

The key takeaway from Holsting's advice is clear: rather than seeking alternatives to sugar, individuals should focus on reducing their overall sugar intake. Whether derived from natural sources or fabricated in a lab, the impact of different sugars on the body is substantial and requires mindful consumption to maintain health and wellbeing.

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