Video: 5 Natural & Healthy Substitutes For Refined Sugar

Indian desi food has several naturally sweet ingredients besides sugar that offer multiple health benefits. Jaggery (gur) is commonly used to balance the taste of subzis and dals. An array of desi homemade mithai and desserts use dates, honey, raisins and many other natural sweeteners that are full of nutrition. 

Here are some natural and healthy alternatives to refined sugar you can try right now!

9 Vital Sugar Detox Tips

Sugar detox is about including healthier food options in your diet that will satiate your cravings as well as keep your daily sugar intake in check. It comes with an array of benefits that include improved muscle and brain function, improved blood lipid profile, lower blood sugar levels, weight loss, among others. Here are a few tips that can help you go through your sugar detox journey with ease.

1. Whenever you are out shopping, do not forget to read product labels before you put anything in your cart. Even things like condiments, sauce, cereals often have sugar in them. Be careful about what you buy. It is important to read through the list of ingredients even if you are buying sugar-free foods.
2. Processed foods often contain added sugars or refined ingredients. Focus on whole foods like vegetables, lean meats, poultry, fruits, fish, nuts, milk, lentils, legumes, beans, yoghurt, seeds and unprocessed grains.
3. Fruits can help satisfy your sugar craving. However, make sure you choose fruits with low glycemic. Grapefruit, avocados, berry, and papaya are a few (almost) sugar-free fruits you can include in your diet. 
4. Increasing your consumption of healthy fats can help curb your sugar cravings. A few foods that contain healthy fats are avocados, nuts, seeds, coconut oil, extra virgin olive oil and salmon.
5. Avoid simple carbs when you are on a sugar-free diet. Steer clear of foods like white rice, white pasta, white flour or more. Opt for whole-grain options instead. 
6. You also need to give up sugar-laden beverages including sweetened tea/coffee, juices, sodas and shakes.
7. When it comes to beverages, go for healthier options like sugar-less coffee, herbal tea, detox water, freshly pressed juice, coconut water, and buttermilk.
8. Don’t forget to keep yourself hydrated. Drink plenty of water throughout the day. 
9. For snacks, you can opt for healthier options like fruits (that have low GI), multigrain biscuits, carrots and hummus and homemade granola bars.