Sugar Substitutes for Your Sweet Tooth

While sugar still has its place in our pantry, some are looking to reduce daily intake.

- Abigail McAlister

Most of us have an undeniable sweet tooth. In fact, a majority of Americans eat about 20 teaspoons of sugar daily. While sugar still has its place in our pantry, some are looking to reduce daily intake. People may choose sugar substitutes to reduce calorie intake or avoid potential spikes in blood sugar levels.

Saccharin, commonly known as Sweet’N’Low®, is found in pink packets and is the oldest sugar substitute around; it was approved in 1958. Next came Aspartame, also known as Equal®, which is commonly known as the sweetener in the blue packet. Individuals with Phenylketonuria (PKU) should not consume products with Aspartame. Sucralose (Splenda®), found in the yellow packets, was created in 1998 by scientists who altered a sugar molecule. Stevia, commonly found in green packets, is derived from a wild herb native to South America.