More options to consider as a healthy substitute for sugar:
5. Applesauce
Instead of a half-cup white sugar in a batch of oatmeal cookies, swap in an equal amount of applesauce! The natural sweetness from a Golden Delicious or Fuji apple is perfect in an after-dinner treat. Purchase the no sugar-added kind, or make some at home.
6. Erythritol
This sugar alcohol is practically a guilt-free sweet solution. (And the FDA says it’s safe!) At 0.2 calories per gram, the white powder from a plant occurs naturally in many fruits. Plus, it doesn’t lead to tooth decay and other not-so-sweet effects of sugar consumption. It’s not quite as sweet as natural sugar, so try it in chocolate baked goods like brownies.
7. Raisins
For a creative spin on things, blend a cup of raisins in a food processer. With antioxidants and fiber, these little dried grapes add a kick to any baked good.
8. Cinnamon
Spice up a morning cup of coffee with cinnamon. This super spice adds subtle sweetness while boosting immunity, no calories included.
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Real honey IS healthy. Most stores sell High Fructose Corn Syrup labeled as honey, which is not honey at all. Maple syrup, if pure, is not harmful, either. Coconut sugar and stevia are the safest.
Agave syrup is as highly processed as HFCS and contains a higher level of fructose. Honey and maple syrup are both very tasty sugar syrups.