7 Tips On Sweeteners

Discussions on The Differences Between Sweeteners
By: Matthew Smith, DACM, MSOM

***Disclaimer: This article is not intended to be used as grounds to claim a cure of any disease. If you are thinking about using an herb, supplement, or therapy of any kind please first consult your primary care provider ***
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Introduction: Are You Aware?
Are you aware of the sweeteners that you consume on a daily basis? Well it may be a good idea to start. You see, we have natural sweeteners, processed sweeteners, and even sweeteners that can create toxic buildup and inflammation in the body. Diet drinks, longer-lasting flavors, sweeteners that can relate to migraines, spikes in glucose leading to insulin resistance, and organic sweeteners that are straight up lies in the “sweet” industry. 

Seven Tips To Sweeteners
Simply growing awareness about the sweeteners you are consuming is good enough to start on the right track. Here are some basic tips to start: 

​One
If it isn't part of a food normally, in its natural state, it probably is not going to benefit you and thus has been processed. Unless the product specifically says it is unrefined then it has likely been processed which is not in your best interest. 

Two
Organic does not mean unrefined when it comes to sweeteners. Organic cane sugar isn't as good as it sounds since organic cane sugar is not the same thing as unrefined organic cane sugar.  Unrefined organic cane sugar means it has not been processed. Regular organic cane sugar however, still can be processed even though it has an organic label on it. 

Three
There are sweeteners that exist that do not spike your glucose levels. Sweeteners such as Stevia, Erythritol, Monk Fruit Extract, Xylitol, do not spike your glucose levels. But, that does not mean they have not been processed. While all these sweeteners may be a potentially better alternative, unless they specifically say unrefined, you are still eating a processed food product that may have a chemical composition that was tampered with. 

Four
Only consume any sweetener in moderation. The diet is about balance and if you are facing cravings then you are likely dealing with an imbalance that needs to be addressed.

Five 
Sugar is sugar even in its most natural state for example, fruit sugar like fructose in an apple. It is still going to act like sugar in your body, raise your glucose level, and create the necessary physiological effects for survival and proper absorption.

Six
We need glucose sugar to survive.

Seven
We do not need to get sugars from sweeteners in order to maintain healthy amounts in our blood.

The Bottom Line Is This...
The bottom line is this, sweet things exist and we get hooked on them. It is a mastery of the food industry to get us hooked on the processed foods that cost more money but end up putting more money in their pockets as a result. This is just basic consumerism. If people like it they want more and more of it. There is more of a turn of profit that comes from a patented product rather than a whole plant food that comes from a farm in its completely natural state. The point is, these products can be deceiving, making you think it is a healthier choice when in reality it may not be as good as you think. Do your research and find what suits you best. Just because it may say it is healthier on the label does not necessarily mean it comes without side effects that you could be unaware of over time.

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Health & Human Performance  Coach, Doctor of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine, professor, and competitive strength athlete, Matthew Sabey Smith DACM, MSOM, Dipl.Ac,, CPT is the owner and founder of Strength Smith Training Systems LLC. With an extensive background in integrative holistic health, training and coaching, Dr. Matt uses his knowledge to help individuals improve their training, boost their recovery and maintain optimal balance as they chase their athletic, fitness and health endeavors.

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