Sugar substitutes are important for both diabetics and anyone who wants to start consuming lower amounts of sugar or is interested in a healthy lifestyle. At the same time, the myths surrounding sweeteners are growing along with their popularity. Today we will debunk six false myths about erythritol – one of the most widely used sugar substitutes.
 
Myth #1: Erythritol is just as harmful as sugar
 
Erythritol has a glycemic index of zero. This makes it safe for diabetics, as it does not increase blood sugar levels. The lack of energy drops and hunger is another advantage of the sweetener, explained by the absence of an effect on insulin secretion. The low calorie content of the sweetener is one of its biggest advantages. Compared to sugar, which has four calories per gram, erythritol has only 0.2. The close similarity of the sweetener to the taste of sugar is also in its plus, pushing it into the background.
 
Myth #2: Erythritol is not a natural product
 
In addition to being found in small amounts in fruits and vegetables, our metabolism also produces it and it is found in human cells. This makes it a natural product. Even in commercial production, where it is needed in larger quantities, it is most often extracted from glucose through fermentation.
 
Myth #3: It is harmful to the digestive system
 
The sweetener has high absorption rates in the small intestine, which means that only 10% of it reaches the large intestine, which reduces the occurrence of gas and bloating. At the same time, erythritol is not significantly affected by intestinal bacteria and therefore does not ferment as much as sugar, which reduces the possibility of gastrointestinal problems.
 


Myth #4: It cannot be used for cooking
 
Erythritol has high heat stability, which makes it suitable for baking. High temperatures do not affect its taste or condition, and it does not break down. Although when cooking with erythritol instead of sugar, we have to adjust recipes and adapt them, with the sweetener’s popularity, there are now many ready-made recipes online to choose from.
 
Myth #5: Erythritol needs to be used in large quantities to be effective
 
This is not true, although erythritol has a sweetness content between 60 and 80 percent that of regular sugar. It is not necessary to use excessively, but it may take a little more to get the same sweetness. Many find that especially when mixed with other sweeteners, a moderate amount of erythritol is enough to achieve the necessary sweetness.
 
Myth #6: Erythritol causes cavities, just like sugar
 
When you eat something sweet that contains sugar, the natural bacteria in your mouth metabolize the sugar into acids that eat away at tooth enamel. Erythritol, on the other hand, does not ferment in the same way. In this way, the normal pH in the mouth is also maintained. Again, compared to sugar, the sweetener has a lower chance of causing bad breath. Since it does not produce the acids in question, it does not contribute to the bad smell.
 
We can summarize that it is not in vain that erythritol is one of the most popular sugar substitutes. Not only people suffering from diabetes can benefit from it, but also anyone who wants to change their diet in a positive way. Its most important advantages are low calorie content and zero glycemic index, which are also the main disadvantages of sugar intake. In this way, the body manages to maintain its banality and does not experience energy peaks and crashes.
 
The market is full of different brands and varieties of sweeteners, but it is important to focus on quality. 100% Natural Erythritol from Haya Labs is a high-quality erythritol, which, in addition to having all the benefits we have described, absorbs free radicals, has an antioxidant effect and is many times more effective than xylitol. By replacing sugar with 100% Natural Erythritol, you are helping your body and enjoying delicious food at the same time.
 


Tell us what your favorite recipe with erythritol is.
Regards,
Haya Labs.