Photo by Freepik
Written by Navneet Kaur, M.Sc. Nutrition & Dietetics
Diet
Diwali, the festival of lights, is a time for joy, family gatherings, and indulging in delicious sweets. However, the excessive use of sugar in traditional Diwali sweets can lead to health concerns. To make this festive season a bit healthier, it's a good idea to explore alternative sweeteners that can be used in your Diwali preparations.
Photo by Freepik
Stevia is a natural sweetener extracted from the leaves of the stevia plant. It is a low-calorie sweetener and does not affect blood sugar levels, making it an excellent sugar substitute for Diwali sweets.
Photo by BodyViva
Honey is a natural sweetener with various health benefits. Its distinct flavour can enhance the taste of your sweets while providing antioxidants and vitamins.
Photo by Unsplash
Maple syrup, with its rich, caramel-like flavour, can be used as a healthier alternative to sugar. Ensure you opt for pure maple syrup without added sugars.
Photo by Freepik
Dates are naturally sweet and packed with essential nutrients, including fibre and vitamins. You can blend them into a paste and use this as a sweetener in your Diwali recipes.
Photo by Freepik
Coconut sugar is derived from the sap of coconut palm trees. It has a lower glycemic index than regular sugar and imparts a pleasant caramel flavour to your sweets.
Photo by Freepik
Agave nectar is a low-glycemic sweetener derived from the agave plant. It is sweeter than sugar, so you'll need less of it in your recipes.
Photo by Freepik
Purees made from fruits like bananas, apples, or pears can replace sugar in many Diwali recipes while adding natural sweetness and moisture.
Photo by Freepik
Jaggery is a traditional Indian sweetener made from sugarcane or palm sap. It's unrefined and contains minerals, making it a healthier alternative to white sugar.
Photo by Freepik
Monk fruit extract is a non-caloric sweetener that can be used sparingly to sweeten your Diwali sweets without affecting blood sugar levels.
Photo by Holistic Bodyworks
As you prepare for the Diwali festivities, consider using these healthy sugar alternatives to create sweets that are not only delicious but also better for your overall well-being. By making mindful choices in your recipes, you can enjoy the traditional flavours of Diwali while taking a step towards a healthier and more sustainable celebration.
Photo by Freepik