Sugar is not recommended for children under 4 years old. So what to sweeten porridge and what to dip pancakes in? TOP 5 natural sugar replacement options in our article
Sugar norms
In addition to the obvious sweets and soda that kids consume, there are hidden sugars. It is found in many products - and it is important to read labels to control the daily consumption of the product. And the norms are. This simple carbohydrate is strictly prohibited for children under four years old. From 4-6, the permissible consumption rate is 19 grams of sugar per day. Up to 11 - no more than 25 grams. After - the permissible rate is 30.
How to replace sugar?
Dark sugar. For example, reed. The easiest way to switch from white refined if your child is accustomed to tea with sugar. In terms of sweetness, it is the same, but its glycemic index is lower, so the energy received will not go to chubby cheeks, but to support the vital activity of the body. It is important - only an unrefined product is useful. And again - do not overload, it is the same calorie content as white sugar.
GI - 55
Kcal - 380
A little trick - you can smoothly switch from reed to coconut. Which is less sweet. Its GI is even lower than that of cane and beet sugar.
GI - 35
Kcal - 375
Syrups
A huge number of syrups are now available in eco-food stores. Yes, they are an order of magnitude higher in price than regular sugar. But a natural sweetener in moderation can help you reduce your cravings for unhealthy sweets. The most popular syrup is maple. We often see him on the table at the Americans. This is because sugar maple mainly grows in Canada and the United States. Manufacturers name 54 useful components of maple syrup, including the vitamin B group.
GI - 55
Kcal - 250
Agave syrup
For its production, the same agave is used as for tequila. But fear not, this sweetener will not harm, although it is about one and a half times sweeter than sugar. Does not cause a rapid spike in blood sugar. Important - agave syrup must be organic, with minimal processing. Otherwise, the benefits in it are minimized.
GI - 15
Kcal - 310
Jerusalem artichoke syrup
or, in our opinion, an earthen pear. Remember the taste like potatoes, but like not?
Jerusalem artichoke syrup tastes like honey / istockphoto.com
GI - 13
Kcal - 260
Date
Concentrated date syrup - great for sweetening porridge, cheese cakes and pancakes. It contains vitamin C as well as zinc. By the way, this syrup can also be made at home. It is enough to soak in hot water for 2 hours, beat, and squeeze through cheesecloth and strain again.
GI - 35
Kcal - 277
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