What are plant-based sweeteners?

Plant-based sweeteners, unlike artificial ones, are derived from natural sources and are not manufactured in a laboratory. Examples include Stevia and monk fruit. These sweeteners are typically non-caloric or low-caloric and only required in small amounts to impart a sweet taste, potentially making them healthier options.

Andrew Huberman explains that while there isn't extensive research, these sweeteners may be less harmful due to their evolutionary exposure in traditional diets, implying our bodies might handle them better than synthetic options 1. Although data on their effects during fasting is limited and varies by individual, plant-based sweeteners like Stevia seem to have minimal impact on blood glucose levels compared to artificial sweeteners like aspartame or sucralose 2.