Dhanteras, Diwali health tips: 7 sugar alternatives to savour festive treats guilt-free

Festive treats have long been synonymous with sweetness but this Dhanteras, Diwali or Bhai Dooj, it is time we redefine what that sweetness means. Discovering sugar alternatives like - wild honey, jaggery, Gulkand, coconut sugar and date syrup is not just a culinary exploration; it's a journey towards healthier celebrations and there’s no better time than this festive season to begin. Dhanteras, Diwali health tips: 7 sugar alternatives to savour festive treats guilt-free In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Satyajit Hange, Co-Founder and Farmer at Two Brothers Organic Farms, shared, “Among all natural sweeteners, honey is a true standout, and it's loaded with taste and health benefits. Similarly, the rich taste and smooth texture of iron-rich jaggery, particularly date palm jaggery is the best way to sweeten laddoos, kheer, halwa and homemade mithai to jazz up our festive culinary experience.” He suggested, “Gulkand can be mixed with yogurt and sorbet to prepare delectable beverages like lassi and tasty thandai and even as sweet toppings. Incorporating these natural sweeteners into festive celebrations would be a lifestyle shift and a conscious choice that centers around the understanding that health and indulgence can coexist and that we can celebrate the festivities without guilt.” Asserting that as we navigate the festive season it would be optimal to choose healthier alternatives to white sugar, Chandni Haldurai, Head of Nutrition at Cure.fit, recommended three sugar substitutes which not only hit the mark but carry a wealth of essential nutrients - 1.