It is a popular knowledge that consuming too much sugar leads to sugar addiction, which means the satisfactory dose increases progressively. Consuming excessive amounts of sugar leads to a wide range of health problems and diseases and tooth decay.

Sugar is high in calories which provides an instant energy boost, followed by the infamous sugar crash.

While it really does provide an instant energy, is it also empty in beneficial nutrients which makes sugar an unhealthy and potentially harmful ingredient to our health.

There are many sweet foods and sugar alternatives in nature that give the same sweet taste but are beneficial for our health also.

Here are 3 natural sugar substitutes everyone should try;

Raw Honey

Honey is known for its anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties, alongside many minerals including calcium, phosphorus, iron, zinc and potassium, and vitamins, such as Vitamin B6, niacin and riboflavin.

It has a naturally sweet taste that makes it perfect sugar substitute.

Dates

Dates are packed with natural sugars, dietary fibers, Vitamin B6 and minerals like potassium, iron, copper, manganese, and magnesium. They are easily digested and help reduce blood cholesterol and decrease the risk of cardiovascular diseases and stroke.

To use dates as a sugar substitute, all you need to do is to soak a handful of dates in hot water. When they are soft enough, blend them together with the water in which they were soaked, until a paste is made with a consistency of a peanut butter. Use this paste instead if sugar.

Banana Puree

Bananas are naturally sweet, rich in dietary fiber and potassium, Vitamins B6 and C.

They are the perfect choice to use as a replacement for sugar.

To make your own banana puree sugar alternative, use overripe bananas because they are much sweeter. Mash or blend them with water, until you reach a consistency of thick applesauce.

For every recipe that requires one cup of sugar, use one cup of banana puree.

When exposed to air, bananas change their color due to oxidation. To delay the oxidation process, add one teaspoon of lemon juice when blending.