Type 2 diabetes is relatively common among older adults, and
its symptoms are often exacerbated by consuming excessive sugar. Giving up on
sugars can be challenging for diabetic seniors, but there are several healthier
alternatives available. Vancouver Home Care experts
list down a few sugar substitutes.
1. Coconut Sugar
As a natural sweetener, coconut sugar is a healthier substitute to regular sugar. The sweetener is unrefined and rich in vitamins and minerals, and it doesn’t cause abrupt fluctuations in blood sugar levels. However, seniors should consult their doctors because coconut sugar contains the exact amount of calories as regular sugar.
2. Nectar
Agave nectar ranks fairly low on the glycemic index, which
means it does not lead to spikes in blood sugar levels. However, the nectar is
rich in fructose. When consumed excessively, this nectar can lead to weight
gain and obesity. It is also sweeter than sugar, and it should be diluted
before being consumed.
3. Honey
Raw honey contains much less fructose than normal sugar and
agave nectar. When consumed regularly, honey can boost heart health, reduce
inflammation, and build up immunities. However, a common side effect of honey
is that it is metabolized in the body in the same manner as fructose and normal
sugar. Diabetic seniors should consult their doctors before adding honey to
their diets.
4. Date Paste
Seniors looking for healthier and easy-to-prepare substitute
for sugars should consider date paste. The paste is easy to prepare. Simply
blend 3/4th cup of water with ½ tablespoon of vanilla extract and
one cup of pitted, warm dates. Date paste can be used in baked goods, smoothies,
salads, dressings, and several other meals and drinks, and it can taste sweeter
than regular sugar.
5. Birch Sugar
Sugar alcohol can be as sweet as normal sugar, but it
contains much less calories, does not promote tooth decay, and prevents blood glucose
levels from rising. One of the side effects of birch sugar is that it can have
a laxative effect on seniors. The sugar can be used in beverages, cereals,
baked products, and smoothies.
6. Monk Fruit Extracts
Unlike other sugar substitutes, monk fruit extracts can be
up to 150 times sweeter than normal sugar. Hence, it should only be consumed in
very limited quantities. One of the benefits of monk sugar is that it contains
very little calories, so it is good for weight loss. However, most of the fruit
extracts available in market contain other artificial sweeteners. Seniors
should carefully read the labels when shopping for sugar substitutes.
7. Sucralose
As an artificial sweetener, sucralose is often marketed as a
product made for diabetics. It is nearly 600 times sweeter than sugar, but it
contains zero calories. The product is sold under various brand names. It can
be used in baked goods, tea, coffee, drinks, candies, and several other
products. However, the product should be consumed in limited quantities and
only to satisfy cravings for sweet products.
Before considering any substitute for sugar, seniors need to
consult their doctors. The doctor can prescribe a particular sweetener, bearing
in mind a senior’s diabetes level, health condition, food allergies, and other
vitals.
