It is said that the average American consumes around 150 -170 pounds of sugar each year. Can you believe that? The average person will consume enough sugar to equal one’s entire body weight over the course of a year!
With so many people consuming sugar, it is no surprise that we are seeking healthier ways to provide sweet treats to our diet. The downside of this trend is that often times our sugar supplements are found to be more of a risk than a benefit to our health. This article serves as a quick introduction to the sugar supplements industry and can provide you with helpful information when choosing your next supplement. While this information is “current’ keep in mind that sugar supplements are always changing and it is recommended to stay up to date on your favorite sweets.
Top 3 Worst Sugar Supplements
Acesulfame K
Approved by the FDA in 1988, this sugar supplement often times goes unnoticed because of its use in the manufacturing process. This sweetener is used in some of your favorite foods such as ice cream, juices, and even toothpaste. Long term usage of this sweetener is known to cause headaches, depression, nausea and even cancer.
Aspartame (aka Equal or NutraSweet)
Aspartame is estimated to be included in over 6,000 foods that we cons
ume without regard on a daily basis. From cereal, to gum, this sugar supplement has been scientifically proven to cause multiple health problems ranging from headaches, to cancer.
Saccharin (aka Sweet N’ Low)
This sweetener was introduced in the early 1970’s and has been known to cause toxic buildup in one’s body causing them to suffer from inflammation, hormonal imbalances, and certain chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease and cancer.
Top 3 Best Sugar Supplements
Stevia (aka Truvia or SweetLeaf)
Stevia is from the Stevia Rebaudiana plant found in Paraguay and Brazil. This sweetener boasts a zero calorie intake and is claimed to taste just like table sugar. It is also reported that Stevia can boost one’s metabolism and potentially be a treatment for diabetes.
Agave nectar
Agave is a natural sweetener not developed in a lab and with this sweet honey like treat, the biggest benefit is that you don’t have to use as much sweetener as normal table sugar to get the full benefits. Agave nectar is also known to lower your glycemic index preventing a sugar crash when used.
Honey
One of the oldest sweeteners on the planet, honey has been used to spice up your treats from breakfast foods, snacks and desert treats. Honey has been known to reduce both weight and fat in studies conducted of individuals on a consistent diet of this tasty treat. In addition, honey in its natural state provides an array of antioxidants, vitamin B6, and other great benefits.
Personally, I love my fair share of sugar, and while I don’t drink my coffee with cream and sugar, I do enjoy a tall stack of pancakes dressed with fresh honey. 
While more and more Americans struggle with health problems, it is no wonder that we are looking to change up our eating habits and sugar intake. With that in mind, it is equally important to stay current on your favorite sweeteners and always outweigh the risk over rewards. So next time you are thinking of a sweet treat, why not stop by your local farmers market and pick up a fresh batch of natural honey, or swing by your supermarket and visit the Agave isle to cut down on the amount of sweetener you need during your next meal. Regardless of your sugar preference, understanding the history, impact and health risks of your daily diet is key to living a long and healthy life.
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