Which one is better: stevia or sugar?
- Stevia has a slightly different taste than sugar
- Sugar is widely available compared to stevia
- Stevia is a healthier alternative to sugar
Recently, there has been a growing interest in natural sweeteners as an alternative to sugar. Stevia, a plant-based sweetener, has gained popularity in the health and wellness community as a sugar substitute. But is stevia a better option than sugar? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the stevia vs. sugar comparison.
But before we proceed to the debate, let us first give each sweetener its moment to shine.
Sugar
We all know what sugar is, but to put it simply, sugar is a simple carbohydrate that is naturally found in many foods, like fruits and veggies. But let’s be honest—most of the sugar we consume comes from processed foods and drinks. Your favorite ice cream is one of them!
Table sugar, also called refined sugar, comes from sugar cane or sugar beets and goes through processing, which takes away all of its nutrients and fiber. This leaves us with empty calories that can make us gain weight, make our bodies less sensitive to insulin, and cause other health problems.
Stevia
It might be foreign to some, but stevia has been used by some countries as an alternative to sugar for years now. Stevia is a natural sugar from the leaves of the South American stevia plant. Native people in Paraguay and Brazil have used it for centuries to add sweetness to their food and drinks. Stevia is 200–300 times sweeter than sugar, so a little goes a long way.
Stevia, unlike sugar, has no calories or carbohydrates and does not affect the amount of sugar in the blood. People with diabetes or who want to lose weight often choose it because of this. Stevia is also a natural sugar that isn’t changed in any way, so it keeps all of its nutrients and health benefits.
Stevia vs. Sugar
The biggest difference between stevia and sugar is how they affect your health. Sugar has a lot of calories and a high glycemic index, which can lead to weight gain, diabetes, and other health problems. Stevia, on the other hand, is a sugar substitute with no calories, a low glycemic index, and no effect on blood sugar levels.
Both sugar and stevia have pros and cons, but stevia is a better choice for people who want to cut back on sugar and improve their health. Here are some other major differences between stevia and sugar:
Stevia has a slightly different taste than sugar
Stevia has a slightly bitter or licorice-like aftertaste that some people may initially find off-putting. Sugar, on the other hand, is known for its overly sweet taste. But many people like the way stevia tastes more than sugar because it’s not as strong and doesn’t leave a heavy aftertaste.
Some stevia products add flavors, like vanilla or chocolate, which can help hide any bitter notes and improve the overall taste. In conclusion, stevia may take some getting used to, but many people find that its sweetness is more balanced and mild than that of sugar, which can be a nice change.
Sugar is widely available compared to stevia
Sugar is widely available and can be found in most grocery stores, restaurants, and cafes. It is a staple ingredient in many processed foods and beverages, including sodas, candy, baked goods, and sauces.
On the other hand, stevia is less common and may not be available in all stores or restaurants. However, as more people become interested in natural sweeteners, stevia is becoming more widely available and can often be found in health food stores, specialty food stores, and online retailers.
Even instant coffee now has stevia incorporated as a healthy alternative to sugar. Bona Vita’s 8-in-1 instant coffee with stevia offers the perfect balance of sweetness without the added calories and negative health effects of sugar. Plus, because it is a natural sweetener, it won’t leave you with that jittery, crashing feeling that can sometimes come with consuming too much sugar or artificial sweeteners.
Stevia is a healthier alternative to sugar
Regarding sweeteners, sugar has long been the go-to choice for many people. However, as more research emerges about the negative health effects of consuming too much sugar, many are looking for healthier alternatives.
This is where stevia comes in. It is calorie-free, and it can be a great choice for those looking to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight. By switching from sugar to stevia, you can reduce your overall calorie intake without sacrificing sweetness or flavor.
Another benefit of stevia is its lower glycemic index. This means that it doesn’t cause the same rapid spikes and crashes in blood sugar levels that sugar does, which can be particularly beneficial for those with diabetes or other blood sugar-related conditions.
Key Takeaway
Stevia vs. sugar: which is better? While both stevia and sugar have their pros and cons, stevia is generally considered to be a better option for those looking to reduce their sugar intake and improve their health.
With that said, it’s important to remember that while stevia is a better option than sugar in terms of health, it should still be consumed in moderation. Just because a sweetener is natural and calorie-free doesn’t mean it can be consumed in unlimited quantities. As with any food or drink, moderation is key. By making small changes like switching from sugar to stevia, we can take steps towards a healthier lifestyle.
If you’re looking to try Bona Vita’s instant coffee with stevia or any of our other health and wellness products, be sure to check out our online shop. Bona Vita offers a wide range of products to help you live a healthier, happier life, from supplements and vitamins to instant drinks!