It seems like the battle against sugar is endless! Luckily, natural sweeteners and sugar alternatives can help you satisfy your sweet tooth without compromising your health goals.
So, let's go over the 5 best sugar substitutes if you want to support better health.
At a Glance
- Stevia: A plant-based sweetener with zero calories
- Erythritol: A low-calorie sweetener that tastes very much like sugar
- Xylitol: Even your dentist can't say "no" to this sweetener
- Monk fruit: An antioxidant-rich alternative to refined sugar
- Honey: Full of vitamins, minerals, and deliciousness
See Related: Melatonin for Kids: Is Melatonin a Safe Sleep Aid for Kids?
#1. Stevia: A Plant-Based Sweetener on Another Level
You may think that sugar is the cream of the crop when it comes to actual sweetness. However, you thought wrong!
In fact, stevia is hundreds of times sweeter than sugar, so a little bit goes a long way.
Don't know what stevia is? No worries - we've got you. Stevia is a low-calorie, all-natural, and plant-based sweetener that comes from the Stevia rebaudiana plant. The leaves of this plant contain a variety of compounds, including stevioside and rebaudioside A, which are hundreds of times sweeter than sugar.
Aren't yet convinced? Stevia isn't only ultra-sweet and plant-based, but it also carries a plethora of potential health benefits:
- Blood pressure & blood sugar control: Stevia may help lower high blood pressure and maintain healthy blood sugar levels.
- Calorie-free: It's hard to imagine that there's such a thing as a zero-calorie sweetener, right? Surprisingly, stevia has zero calories, making it an ideal way to sweeten foods, baked goods, drinks, and snacks without increasing your calorie intake.
- Sustained energy: Sugar is known for causing energy spikes and crashes. Luckily, stevia doesn't come with that downside.
#2. Erythritol: The Long-Lost Cousin of Sugar
One of the issues with sugar substitutes or artificial sweeteners is that they don't taste exactly like sugar. While this isn't a dealbreaker for many, for some, it can make it challenging to give up sugar for good. That's where erythritol steps in!
Erythritol is a sugar alcohol found naturally in fruits and fermented foods. It has a low glycemic index, meaning it's good for diabetics, and has a taste, texture, and sweetness similar to sugar.
Bonus: 6 Natural Sleep Aids for Better Sleep in 2025
#3. Xylitol: A Sweetener That's Good for Your Teeth
Xylitol, pronounced zai-luh-taal, steps up where sugar falls short.
Though your dentist may warn you against sweet candies and sugary treats, they have nothing against xylitol! Xylitol is a sugar alcohol with dental health benefits, as it has been shown to improve bone density, reduce the risk of cavities and tooth decay, and even support the gut microbiome.
Just keep in mind that xylitol is beneficial in moderation but toxic to dogs!
#4. Monk Fruit: A Sugar Alternative With Antioxidants
Derived from Luo Han Guo, monk fruit is a sweetener known for its low calories and low glycemic index. Additionally, it's rich in compounds that possess anti-inflammatory properties, and it can help stabilize blood sugar levels.
All in all, monk fruit is an excellent alternative to refined sugar or processed sugar.
#5. Honey
Sugar - it's so sweet yet so sneaky! So, when you're ready to finally put your sugar back on the shelf, honey will save the day.
Raw honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar are all delicious and healthy, making them the perfect substitute for sugar. Plus, they contain beneficial compounds like antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that are oh-so good for you!
The Bottom Line
These alternative sweeteners make it easy and enjoyable to maintain your healthy habits. Whether you're avoiding added calories or seeking low-calorie sweeteners, swapping sugar for stevia (or any of the other sugar substitutes on this list) is the way to go.
Though table sugar is okay in moderation, try not to have it every day. That's why we use stevia extract in our collection of hot cocoa mixes. This ingredient ensures that you won't experience energy spikes or consume unwanted calories, all while putting your health and wellness first.
Take a moment to stir, sip, and enjoy, feeling the flavor and aroma of your hot chocolate calm your mind, soothe your senses, and relax your body.
You deserve to enjoy a warm beverage without worrying about the impact of sugar. Let us help you in your journey!
Keep Reading: The Surprising Health Benefits of Drinking Hot Chocolate
People Also Ask
What Is the Healthiest Alternative to Sugar?
Natural sweeteners like stevia, monk fruit, honey, or maple syrup are all healthy and tasty alternatives to sugar.
You can even use fruits like bananas, dates, or apples as natural sweeteners in baking.
What Sugar Substitute Tastes Closest to Real Sugar?
The thing with sugar substitutes is that they're not sugar. That means they may have a unique flavor or a mild aftertaste.
However, most sugar substitutes do taste similar to sugar - after all, that's why they're considered a sugar substitute!
Which Is Better, Splenda or Stevia?
What is "better" depends on what you're looking for!
Want something that undergoes minimal processing, comes from a natural origin, and has some potential nutritional benefits? Go with stevia!
If you want something with a sugar-like taste, go with Splenda (although some studies suggest that Splenda may have effects on glucose and insulin levels).
--
Mindful Nutrition is a veteran-owned company with a passion for health and mental wellness. We use natural ingredients to support both body and mind, including melatonin, GABA, ashwagandha, and L-Theanine. Our hot cocoa blends are vegan, non-GMO, and plant-based, designed to promote relaxation, calmness, and better sleep. We utilize third-party testing on all products to ensure purity, quality, and safety. To stay connected and learn more, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
