What are healthy sweeteners?

In the "Mind Pump Podcast," various healthy sweeteners have been discussed and generally viewed as preferable to artificial sweeteners, with a few recommended options being:

1. Stevia: It is derived from a South American root, perceived as more natural compared to other sweeteners, and considered better than aspartame and sucralose. Stevia has been found largely safe in studies, with earlier concerns about its impact on fertility in animals not being supported by later research 1.

2. Monk Fruit: This is another natural sweetener that is recognized as a healthy alternative. Monk fruit extract is derived from a fruit and provides sweetness without added calories 1.

3. Erythritol: Mentioned specifically for not only being a sweet substitute but also having benefits for oral health, erythritol is a sugar alcohol found to be less likely to cause digestive issues compared to other sugar alcohols, making it a preferable choice 1.

In comparison to artificial sweeteners like aspartame and sucralose, these options do not come with the same level of concern regarding potential health risks and effects on behavior that may lead to overeating or disrupt the gut microbiome. However, it's noted that even these healthier options should not be consumed excessively as they can still activate reward pathways in the brain related to sugar consumption.