Market today is brimming with alternatives to sugar, both natural (honey, jaggery, molasses) and artificial (like allulose, advantame, etc.). With an increasing number of people opting for healthier food options, sugar substitutes are often seen as a "cheat code" for indulging in desserts while staying health-conscious. What Is Allulose?Allulose is a naturally occurring sugar found in figs, raisins, wheat, maple syrup, and molasses. It is also available as a sugar substitute and is popular among those looking to reduce or eliminate sugar from their diets, including individuals with diabetes and those following specialized diets like keto. However, empirical evidence suggests that "sugar-free" baked goods made with allulose, such as muffins, might still contribute to calorie gain. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved allulose as "generally recognized as safe" (GRAS). It is also approved in countries like Japan, Mexico, Chile, China, South Korea, and India. However, Canada and Europe classify allulose as a "novel food," citing insufficient long-term testing under their regulatory standards. Health experts warn that rigorous testing on allulose is still lacking. If it mirrors trends seen with other sugar substitutes, such as sugar alcohols like erythritol, there is a valid reason to approach it with caution. Are There Serious Health Concerns?A growing body of research links certain sugar substitutes to significant health risks. For instance, Dr. Hazen of Cleveland Clinic studied sugar alcohols like erythritol and xylitol, naturally occurring substances found in small amounts in the human body. Her research, which analyzed thousands of subjects across the United States and Europe, found that elevated blood levels of these substances correlate with an increased risk of heart attack and stroke. Similarly, studies have indicated that consuming products with artificial sugars can lead to a dramatic rise in blood sugar levels, even in healthy individuals. Dr. Hazen cautions that erythritol- or xylitol-sweetened foods and beverages could pose life-threatening heart risks. Given the similar properties of allulose to these compounds, researchers suggest it could potentially raise similar concerns. Moreover, excessive consumption of allulose may cause digestive issues, such as bloating, queasiness, and stomach discomfort.ALSO READ: Is Honey Good Or Bad For You?Should You Switch To Honey? Honey is often marketed as a healthier alternative to regular sugar. This is largely due to it being nutrient-dense and having a large number of antioxidants. However, while some claim that it could be a nutritious ingredient, others claim it to be a high-sugar indulgence.High-quality honey is rich in antioxidants like phenolic acids and flavonoids, which combat free radicals and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases and mental health issues. Studies suggest replacing sugar with honey can improve heart health by lowering LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, and increasing HDL cholesterol. Honey also promotes wound healing due to its antibacterial properties, as shown in studies on diabetic foot ulcers. While a healthier alternative to refined sugar, honey is calorie-dense, with 64 calories per tablespoon, potentially contributing to weight gain and blood sugar spikes if consumed excessively. Moderation remains key to reaping its benefits.