> ## Documentation Index > Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://cookbook.mantavyam.com/llms.txt > Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further. # Natural vs Added Sugar Difference & 5 Types of Natural Sugar Alternative Natural vs Added Sugar Difference & 5 Types of Natural Sugar Alternative ## Natural sugars vs Added sugar – Different Types #### Raw honey Natural vs Added Sugar Difference Whenever we discuss **Natural vs Added Sugar,** honey is the most preferred natural alternative. Raw honey retains its beneficial properties like antioxidants and other nutrients as it is strained just before it is bottled. Regular honey might have lost its beneficial properties as it undergoes various processes before it is bottled. Raw honey has many health benefits: it has anti-oxidant properties, Nutritions, Anti-bacterial properties, Wound healing, Helps relieve cough, Might treat diarrhoea as well. Consume Raw honey only if you are not allergic to bee pollen. #### Date puree Natural vs Added Sugar Difference Date puree is a better option than table sugar or regular honey. It contains nutrients and carbohydrates. Date paste is flavour-rich, tasty, healthy, and cost-effective. A date has a lower glycemic index when compared to table sugar. The puree is made out of deseeded date and a little bit of water. dates puree can be added as a sweetener to cakes, smoothies, cereals, etc. #### Coconut sugar Natural vs Added Sugar Difference Coconut sugar is almost sweet like brown sugar, with a slight caramel taste. It has a lower glycemic index. It contains minerals and anti-oxidants. Coconut sugars are not refined. They contain less fructose. The inulin present in coconut sugar is a slow-dissolving fibre. This does not let blood sugar spike suddenly. Coconut sugar is a safer option for people with diabetes. #### Banana puree Natural vs Added Sugar Difference Over ripped bananas with a few tablespoons of water when blended becomes a banana puree. Bananas are an excellent source of fibres and potassium. Next time instead of throwing away the over ripped bananas, you can make good use of them in various recipes. Over ripped bananas can help reduce at least two tablespoons of sugar while cooking. Bananas also add unique flavour to the recipe. Banana puree can be used in baking, smoothies, yoghurt, etc. ## Added sugars Natural vs Added Sugar Difference Here are a few lists of added sugars that you have to keep checking on: 1. Brown sugar 2. cane sugar 3. corn syrup 4. Fruit juice concentrates 5. maple syrup 6. regular honey 7. molasses Not just these, there are many more you will find on the labels of packed food. These added sugars are just carbohydrates without any additional nutrients. Most with a high glycemic index. Moreover, **Natural vs Added Sugar** is easily highlighted in most packaged foods. It is always better to have a look at it, before buying it. Added sugars are present in baked food, Jellies, ice cream, flavoured yoghurt, sports drinks, coffee drinks, fruit juices, flavoured breakfast cereals, canned fruits, chocolate spreads, ketchup, salad cream, sweet and sour sauces, Alcoholic drinks, etc. Natural vs Added Sugar Difference ## Conclusion – Natural vs Added Sugar The blood sugar drops faster after consuming added sugar. This is called a sugar crash. This makes you even more hungry and you crave more food. When this happens you may end up eating more than needed. This will lead to weight gain. When natural sugars are consumed they take time to digest. You may feel tummy full and there is no need to eat more. Plus when natural sugars are consumed you are not just taking in the carbohydrates but also there are other nutrients you get from Natural sugar. This makes Natural sugar a healthy choice. ## Tips * When it comes to choosing sodas, caffeinated drinks, switch to plain sodas, sugarless coffee. * Choose 100 % fruit pulp juice without added sugar in it. * Try to avoid Regular use of ketchup, spreads, dips, sweet and sour sauce, etc. * Go for plain breakfast cereals, plain yoghurt instead of flavoured ones. * Cutting down carbohydrates doesn’t mean giving up on desserts forever(**doesn’t apply to a diabetic person**). You may try healthier desserts by using natural sugars in them. Original recipe by Hebbar's Kitchen: [https://hebbarskitchen.com/natural-vs-added-sugars/](https://hebbarskitchen.com/natural-vs-added-sugars/)