GOOD Natural Sweeteners Recap

http://www.naturalhealthmag.com/healthy_eating/88?print=1
http://www.naturalhealthmag.com/expert_advice/61 - Answers a bit of ..  How healthy is Maple Syrup and Agave Nectar??

A better sugar rush? We all know that the white stuff is bad for you, but are some sweeteners worse than others? 

Yes, says Susanna Hofmann, an assistant professor of endocrinology at the University of Cincinnati. Agave syrup can contain up to 90 percent fructose, and studies suggest that high concentrations of fructose can lead to weight gain and obesity. "Excess amounts of fructose get converted by the body into fat," Hofmann explains. Using less agave syrup, which is more potent than table sugar, may help balance the higher fructose content. 

Hofmann's advice? Choose sweeteners with lower fructose levels, such as brown rice syrup, honey or brown sugar. As a bonus, these less-refined sugars contain more antioxidants and nutrients than highly processed sugars. But, keep consumption in check. "No sugar is healthy beyond very small quantitites," says Paul Anderson, N.D., a faculty member at Bastyr University's School of Natural Medicine in Kenmore, Washington. 

- Elizabeth Marglin 

Natural Health Magazine. November 2010. Pg 26. 

The past year I've preferred Brown Rice syrup as the best sugar alternative anyway. Experimenting with Agave, I really wasn't one for the taste. Also it stunk up my whole kitchen with a nutty aroma? I didn't dig it :( But I still want to try experimenting with it some more. In some recipes it may be good. But in my opinion, Brown Rice Syrup is an amazing product. Also, I have Zsweet that I've been meaning to try using. 

In addition, a healthier alternative to regular refined sugar is Evaporated Cane Juice, such as Florida Crystals. It is a more natural alternative/less refined form than the standard white table sugar. So it contains more nutrients and minerals. It is a good source of Vitamin B2. (I think there is also something to do with.. regular refined sugar is pure sucrose and ECJ is sucrose, fructose, and glucose... sooo its not as bad for you ?? I'll have to research that a little more.)
It can come in the following forms:

• Milled Cane: small grained crystals with a golden color and subtle molasses flavor
• Demerara: coarser grained, slightly sticky crystals that have a noticeable molasses flavor
• Muscovado: a raw brown sugar; very fine crystal sugar with a distinct molasses flavor.

When choosing granulated sugar, choose unrefined Raw sugar or Evaporated Cane Juice. Florida Crystals or brands that specifically say "beet sugar".  "Cane Sugar" is typically made with the use of animal products in the form of bone char in the processing, so some vegans tend to void Cane Sugar. 


Molasses is also a good alternative that I have not really focused on, besides Mollasses cookies, rolls and gingerbread cookies.. But I've never paid much attention to the sweetener and thought about using it in more recipes because of it being a better health alternative. It is better because it contains all of the great nutrients taken out of refined sugar. It includes iron, manganese, zinc, copper and chromium. It has a very strong distinct flavor and is highly nutritious. In moderation! ; )