Natural sweeteners such as honey provide extra nutrients, while artificial sweeteners, such as aspartame, provide zero calories
Sweeteners, often called sugar substitutes or sugar substitutes, are substances that give a sweet taste to foods and drinks
Sugar sweeteners, both natural and artificial, tempt our taste buds by mimicking the sweetness of sugar. They activate our sweet receptors and signal pleasure to the brain. Natural sweeteners such as honey provide extra nutrients, while artificial sweeteners, such as aspartame, provide zero calories. Understanding their mechanisms is key to healthier food choices and innovations in the food industry. Pranav Malhotra, founder of Trunativ talks about how sugar sweeteners work and the myths surrounding them.
How sweeteners work?
Sweeteners, often called sugar substitutes or sugar substitutes, are substances that give a sweet taste to foods and drinks. Many sweeteners contain no added calories and no metabolic effects associated with sugar.
- Taste receptorsSweeteners activate taste receptors on our tongue, just like sugar does. However, the majority of them do not provide calories because our bodies cannot fully digest and metabolize them.
- IntensitySweeteners are often many times sweeter than sugar, so only a small amount is needed to achieve the desired sweetness.
- MetabolismUnlike sugar, which is broken down in the body into glucose and fructose, some sweeteners are generally not metabolized, meaning they do not raise blood sugar levels.
Myths
- Sweeteners cause cancerThis is a widespread myth with no scientific basis. Extensive research has shown that approved sweeteners are safe for consumption when used within established guidelines, for example Erythritol and Monk Fruit.
- Sweeteners lead to weight gainSweeteners themselves do not cause weight gain; In fact, zero-calorie sweeteners can be life-changing. They can also be helpful in reducing calorie intake when used as part of a balanced diet.
- Sweeteners are all the sameDifferent sweeteners have different flavor profiles and properties. It is essential to make the right choice for your specific needs and preferences. Ideally, going for low-calorie sweeteners without a bad aftertaste would do wonders.
Side effects
- Digestive problemsHigh consumption of sugar alcohols such as sorbitol, mannitol and xylitol can cause digestive problems, including gas and diarrhea, in sensitive individuals. Therefore, it is advisable to be careful with your sweetener choices.
- Allergic reactionsSome people may be allergic to specific sweeteners, which can lead to symptoms such as hives or itching.
- Bitter aftertasteCertain sweeteners can leave a bitter or metallic aftertaste in some people. However, there are great sugar substitutes on the market without a hint of a bad aftertaste, such as Trunativ’s Everyday Sweet.
Applications
- Replacement of sugarThe most common use of sweeteners is as a sugar substitute in drinks, desserts and baked goods.
- Low-calorie and sugar-free productsThey are key ingredients in producing low-calorie and sugar-free versions of your favorite foods and drinks.
- Diabetes-friendly optionsSweeteners are a valuable tool for controlling blood sugar levels in individuals with diabetes.
- Weight managementThey can help reduce calorie intake and aid in weight management when used in place of sugar.