Sugar has a bad reputation in our diets – so many people turn to supposedly healthier alternatives like agave syrup, honey, stevia, or maple syrup. But how sensible is this really?

Sugar: The “enemy” and its alternatives

Sugar is extracted from sugar beets or sugar cane and provides only calories, without any vitamins or minerals. While there is unrefined sugar available, which contains slightly more nutrients, the difference from conventional white sugar is barely noticeable. Its consumption remains generally questionable, as it only provides "empty calories." From a health perspective, less sugar is better.

Agave syrup – “healthier” thanks to lower blood sugar levels?

Agave syrup is popular because its high fructose content reduces blood sugar spikes. However, this fructose content can be problematic: It can trigger symptoms in people with intolerances and increase the risk of metabolic problems. Furthermore, agave syrup usually has to be imported, which negatively impacts its carbon footprint.

Honey: Natural sweetness with a little extra

Honey, once the only sweetener, is rich in enzymes and antioxidants, but also high in calories and no healthier than sugar. Heat also destroys its valuable nutrients, making it unsuitable for hot drinks. It also contains many simple sugars that affect blood sugar levels in a similar way to refined sugar. Regional honey is the better choice—both ecologically and in terms of taste.

Maple syrup and coconut blossom sugar – Exotic, but not really better

Maple syrup scores points with its distinctive flavor and slightly lower calorie content. However, it's mainly imported from Canada. Coconut blossom sugar, expensive and polluting, is also valued for its caramel flavor and low glycemic index. However, ultimately, more is needed for the same sweetness—unfortunately, neither of these options offers any real health benefits.

Calorie-free alternatives: Stevia, xylitol and erythritol

Calorie-free substitutes such as stevia and erythritol do offer advantages: Stevia is extremely sweet and insulin-neutral, but has a slightly bitter aftertaste and is subject to complex, unsustainable production. Xylitol is considered kind to teeth, but can cause digestive problems in larger quantities. Erythritol is also calorie-free, well-tolerated, and relatively environmentally safe.

Conclusion: No miracle cure in sight

Most sugar alternatives promise a lot but offer few actual health benefits. Those looking to reduce sweetness should generally limit their sugar consumption and use alternatives sparingly. Especially with exotic products, it's worth considering their origin to consider their carbon footprint. The best choice remains conscious, moderate use—regardless of the type of sweetener.

All the best,

Laura