Experts Say This Is the Number-1 Natural Sweetener to Use to Avoid Blood Sugar Spikes
Key Points:
- Experts recommend agave nectar as a sweetener for people with diabetes because it has a low glycemic index (around 20), leading to slower digestion and less impact on blood sugar compared to table sugar, which has a GI of 80.
- Agave's high fructose content (80%) means it is metabolized in the liver before affecting blood glucose, helping to blunt blood sugar spikes.
- Stevia is suggested as a no-calorie, natural sweetener option that may reduce blood glucose levels, though it may have a bitter aftertaste and cause digestive issues for some.
- Limiting added sugar intake remains important for diabetics and prediabetics, and using lower-GI sweeteners like agave in moderation can be a practical strategy.
- Ultimately, the choice of sweetener should be based on personal taste preferences and used sparingly, as no sweetener is inherently healthier than another.