Natural Sweeteners

Definition:
• Exist or produced by nature
• Without added chemical/fancy machinery
• Contain calories and nutrients, are metabolized, and change as they pass
through the body.
Benefits:
• Provide an immediate burst of energy
• Store energy for later
• Provide an instant mood boost
• Support in healthy diet
• Natural sugar sources come with added nutrients
Risks and side effects of some natural sweeteners
Stevia:
According to the FDA, the acceptable daily intake for stevia glycosides is 4 milligrams
(mg) per kilogram of body weight.
Potential side effects linked to stevia consumption include:
• Kidney damage: Stevia is considered a diuretic, meaning that it increases the speed
at which the body expels water and electrolytes from the body in urine.
• Gastrointestinal symptoms
• Allergic reaction
• Hypoglycemia or low blood sugar: long-term or heavy stevia consumption might
cause hypoglycemia or low blood sugar.
• Low blood pressure
• Endocrine disruption
Honey:
• Diabetes: Using large amounts of honey might increase blood sugar levels in people
with diabetes.
• Pollen allergies: Avoid honey if you are allergic to pollen. Honey, which is made from
pollen, may cause allergic reactions.
Molasses:
Although, molasses is safe for most people, but should be consumed in moderation,
an excess intake can have negative health effects:
• Raise blood sugar level
• Cause digestive problems: Consuming large amounts can cause loose stools or
diarrhea. Some people using more than 3 tablespoons per day can also experience
cramps in the lower abdomen. Further, some people can also feel dizziness after
taking it the first time.
• Raise allergy: If you are allergic to sugar cane, you should also avoid using blackstrap
molasses.
Erythrito:
• About 10% of ingested erythritol is not absorbed into the blood and travels
down to the colon. For this reason, a very high intake of erythritol may
cause some digestive side effects.
• One study showed that 50 grams of erythritol in a single dose increased
nausea and stomach rumbling .
Xylitol:
• There is some concern that extremely high doses for long periods of time
(more than three years) can cause tumors. Xylitol can cause diarrhea and
intestinal gas.