We've all heard that most artificial sweeteners are bad for us. And then they came up with Splenda. And now they sell it in the baking aisle. So why not? Well, for one thing it isn't natural. It is made using chlorine. Last time I checked, that's not something you want to ingest. Whole Foods won't even sell it, or anything that contains it (there are 3,500 products on the market with it as an ingredient) because it isn't natural and there have been no long-term studies done to see its effects.
Secondly, studies are now showing that artificial sweeteners do not yield the same response that natural sugars do. So when we're craving something sweet and we eat something sugar free, we aren't going to experience a satisfaction for that desire. In other words, we're still gonna want the chocolate. Plus, there have been no connections between eating and drinking sugar free products and weight loss.
In short, I won't use it when I bake. And I am trying not to use it in my drinks. And I definitely definitely will not let me child eat anything made with it. And if I don't let him eat it, I probably shouldn't either.
So, what can we use instead? I am all about the real deal. I like to keep things wholesome, even if that means a little sugar. I try to use evaporated cane juice (organic sugar), but I'm not above a little C&H. I also use honey, blue agave nectar (it has a lower glycemic index so it prevents a crash), unsweetened applesauce, or mashed banana to make things a bit more nutritious. Don't be afraid of the real stuff! Remember, "you can't get somethin' for nothin'" has been quoted by parents the world over for a reason - it's true.
8 comments:
I'm with ya sister! I've NEVER used splenda. It's the real deal for us too :)
You were ahead of me on roll call this morning over at SITS...thought I'd stop by and say hello!
Good for you on the Splenda and eating healthier. I quite drinking pop a year...went cold turkey...not even diet. I have had a few sips here and there, and now it just tastes gross!
Yay! Good for you! I'm right with you; I haven't used any artificial sweeteners since June & I've also reduced my real sugar intake by about 50% (which for me is a big deal since we all know I'm a sugaraholic!). When I do need a bit of a sweetener, I'm agave nectar all the way. I even bake with it!
I'm not a fan of artificial sweeteners either - even if I chew more than two pieces of gum I feel ill! Maybe just in my head, but I'd rather stay away. I bought some stevia but just can't seem to get into using it...
Ok so I love love love your little blog here. I think being a healthy mama, and having a healthy family is something we all aspire to. I am adding you as a favorite on my blog, I hope that is ok.
Amber
I just discovered your blog through AR. It seems like we have similar feelings about stuff..at least what I've read so far! I'm with you on the sweeteners... none for us either.. atleast not me and the kids... the hubby is a different matter... which is why I'm trying to send our kids down a different healthier pathway! Have a good day! : )
Interesting info!! Chlorine?! Seriously?! Wow. Note to self...NO MORE SPLENDA!
Thanks for stopping by my blog!!
I couldn't agree with you more. I only use Splenda in my coffee once a day which is no big deal but to use it in batches all the time, never. And I never drink diet sodas. My son is 5 and he has never had soda ever, not even a sip. I just feel it's an addiction so why expose him to it when he is young. Real stuff is the best, and in moderation. Totally with ya!!
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