4 Best Substitutes for Coconut Sugar
Okay. So you have found a delicious recipe under the recipe tab on the 28 Day Weight Loss Challenge App. You are inspired and READY to sink your teeth into something totally delicious. You head to your pantry and WHAT! There’s no coconut sugar and there is NO TIME to run to the store…
4 best substitutes for coconut sugar
Well, never fear. In this article, we have outlined 4 of the BEST substitutes for coconut sugar.
Firstly, what is coconut sugar?
Coconut sugar is sugar derived from the coconut palm tree. It is considered to be more ‘nutritious’ and have a lower GI than sugar. This is because coconut sugar contains a fiber called inulin, which can slow glucose absorption. Unlike coconut sugar, regular sugar does not contain any vital nutrients and therefore is considered a supply of ’empty calories’. Coconut sugar, on the other hand, contains minerals such as iron, zinc, calcium and potassium. It is important to note however that coconut sugar is still high in calories (same as regular sugar).
1. Raw honey
Raw honey is amazing for digestion, can soothe a sore throat and is loaded with antioxidants. Raw honey is also a great substitute for coconut sugar. Bear in mind however that honey is liquid (as opposed to granulated). When using honey to replace coconut sugar be sure to only use 1/4 the amount of honey. This will help to keep your recipe balanced.
2. Maple Syrup
Maple syrup is loaded with magnesium, zinc, potassium as well as calcium. A 1/4 cup serving of maple syrup provides 41% of your daily requirement of zinc. Again, similarly to honey, for every cup of sugar required, use 1/4 cup of maple syrup.
3. Date Sugar
Unlike white sugar, date sugar is loaded with vitamins and minerals like calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, zinc, iron, copper, manganese, and selenium. Some research also suggests that date sugar can improve one’s circulation and can help keep you feeling fuller for longer. It does have a higher GI than coconut sugar, however.
4.Stevia
Leaves of the stevia plant are used to make a sugar substitute. Unlike other sugar substitutes, stevia is derived from a plant. Stevia also has no calories, and it is 200 times sweeter than sugar. It also has less of an impact on your blood sugar. You can use stevia to replace coconut sugar. It can also be used in a 1:1 ratio. While these choices are better FOR YOU than normal sugar – they should still be consumed in moderation.
Get access to a range of recipes on the 28 Day Weight Loss Challenge
The 28 Day Weight Loss Challenge has been designed to help busy moms create a healthy lifestyle. Nutritionist-approved healthy meal plans give you alternatives to ‘sometimes foods’, customizing tools to suit your taste, budget and family needs PLUS at home exercise workouts!
