Artificial sweeteners such as aspartame and sucralose have been proven extremely dangerous in high doses and really should just be avoided in general. We have a great post on the dangers of artificial sweeteners here. Studies have shown that although they are low in calories they can cause water retention, bloating, and digestive problems. If you are using sweeteners, try to limit the amount you consume during the day.
The Ultimate Sugar Substitute
My favourite substitute sugar when I’m trying to avoid adding extra calories is Stevia! Stevia is a natural sweetener and will change your life. Try substituting it in as a sweetener in small amounts. We don’t want to substitute addictions – meaning – I don’t want you to go overboard with Stevia either. Most of the sweetness in foods should come from the foods themselves but in cases where you want extra sweetening you can use stevia in place of other sugar alternatives.
There are many different brands of stevia out there and some are better than others. Some of these brands have a more bitter flavour so you want to play around with brands to see which you like more.
Stevia is great in recipes, to sweeten your green tea, or in your morning coffee! You can literally use it everywhere. Try it!
What is Stevia?
Stevia comes from the herb Stevia Rebaudiana and has been used for many years. It was discovered centuries ago by the Guarani Indians of Paraguay who used it nutritionally and medicinally. In 1970 it began being sold commercially in Japan and today it is taking over the sweetener industry.
Stevia’s sweet taste is caused by the glycosides within the herb and they do not contain any calories. This is why Stevia is guilt free!
Benefits of Stevia
Over the years researchers have discovered that Stevia is not just a sweetener. It has many other natural healthy benefits including:
- Lowers elevated blood pressure
- Digestive aid that reduces gas and stomach acidity
- Acts as a tonic to increase energy levels and mental acuity
- Inhibit the growth and reproduction of bacteria that causes gum disease and tooth decay
- Heeling of skin problems such as blemishes, acne, sores, seborrhea, dermatitis, and eczema
- It is an amazing aid to weight loss and weight management
- It is used for people with diabetes, hypoglycemia, and candidiasis to help regulate the pancreas and stabilize blood sugar levels
Task for Today:
Replace your sugar or artificial sweeteners with Stevia. Start by adding a small amount where needed. Try different brands if needed and see what works for you. By eliminating sugar you are sure to assist your weight loss efforts, avoid highs and lows of sugar crashes, and eliminate sugar cravings.
For more info on detoxing from sugar go here.
Tip: DRINK 2L of water today.
P.S. Did you arrive here via Stumbleupon? This tip is number 6 of a 31 part free email course called 31 Tips to a Healthier You on how to improve your health and jumpstart your weight loss one day at a time. Learn more about it by signing up here.
*Please be sure to consult a physician before embarking on any weight loss program. These tips are meant to be part of a healthy lifestyle and are not in any way meant to cure disease.
