Natural sweeteners are sweet-tasting substances derived from natural sources, such as fruit, berries, herbs or trees. These sweeteners provide an alternative sweetness to sugar and artificial sweeteners and are often chosen to reduce calorie intake or for those who want to avoid synthetics.
Examples of natural sweeteners include stevia, which is extracted from the leaves of the stevia plant, honey, maple syrup, agave syrup and fructose from fruit. Many natural sweeteners also contain some nutrients and antioxidants.
Although they are considered healthier alternatives, the use of natural sweeteners should still be moderate and it is important to consider individual health needs, especially for people with diabetes or other health challenges. It is recommended to consult with your healthcare professional before making significant changes to your diet.