Think that eating healthy means you have to pass on dessert? Oh no! What is life without cookies and cake? If you have a penchant for sweets like me, I have listed below some natural indulgences you can try. First, however, let’s explore why these alternatives are preferable to the addictive white stuff.

What’s wrong with sugar?

There is nothing wrong with sugar in its natural form, i.e. raw sugarcane. The form of sugar that we are most familiar with is sucrose, or table sugar. This is refined and overly processed, and as most of us know, has an array of adverse effects on health. Consumption of refined sugar plays a role in diabetes, hypoglycemia, ADHD, and of course, tooth decay. (Your dentist was right!)

I use artificial sweeteners in my drinks and food. Aren’t those okay?

Unfortunately, no. The most commonly used artificial sweetener, aspartame, is just as bad, if not worse, for your health. Aspartame is marketed under a number of names, including Equal and Nutrasweet. There has been a swirl of controversy about this product. You can find more about the risks of consuming aspartame, as well as comprehensive information about all artifical sweeteners, here.

Now, on to the joys of the natural sweeteners…

1. Raw, Unfiltered Honey: Did you know that this glorious product of bees and flowers is full of nutrients, including Vitamins B, C, D, E and protein? Have allergies? Try eating honey from your local area. When making honey, bees collect pollen from local plants. Consuming this honey makes you less sensitive to pollen in your area. You can find local honey at your farmer’s market.

2. Maple Syrup (Grade B): Made from the maple tree, this pure syrup has a distinctive flavor…as those of us who grew up eating waffles know. Mmmmm..

3. Agave: Known as agave nectar or syrup, this sweetener comes from the agave cactus. For those who suffer from diabetes, agave is a perfect alternative to sugar. It is very low on the glycemic index. Also, for those of you who drink tea and add sugar, this is a great substitute.

4. Dates: This succulent food, is also the world’s oldest fruit. They are ideal to use in desserts…or eat on their own! You can find them in most grocery stores, or order them fresh (my favorite!) online.

5. Yacon Syrup: Like agave, this syrup is also extremely low on the glycemic index and also low in calories. The texture and flavor is a mix between molasses and caramel. I use it in my pecan turtle desserts. (I’ll share the recipe soon!)

The More You Know: When buying products, check the label carefully. Refined sugar is hidden in many products as sucrose, maltodextrin, fructose (including high fructose corn syrup), and lactose. For more on high fructose corn syrup, check out this informative post from Savvy Brown.

Have you used any of these natural sweeteners? What is your favorite?