AIIMS gastroenterologist rates 10 common sweeteners based on gut health impact: Brown sugar to raw honey
Also Read | Cardiologist suggests a rare sugar alternative that 'doesn't spike blood sugar, insulin levels and reduces body fat'
In a post shared on July 4, Dr Saurabh Sethi, an AIIMS, Harvard and Stanford universities trained gastroenterologist, talked about 10 common sweeteners and rated them based on their gut health impact. Sharing the list, Dr Sethi wrote, 'Harvard and Stanford-trained gut doctor ranks 10 common sweeteners on a scale of 1-10 (10 is the best).'
10 common sweeteners rated by a gastroenterologist
Talking about the sweeteners, the gastroenterologist highlighted that as a gut doctor, he has seen how artificial and natural sweeteners impact the gut microbiome, digestion, and even inflammation. 'In this short video, I'm ranking 10 of the most common sweeteners—from brown sugar and coconut sugar to stevia and whole dates—on a scale of 1 to 10 based on their gut health impact. Don't fall for the 'sugar-free' trap without understanding what it's actually doing inside your gut. Share this widely to spread awareness,' he added. Let's check out his rating:
1. Coconut sugar: 5
2. Brown sugar: 4
3. Raw honey: 6
4. Chickery root syrup: 8
5. Whole dates: 7
6. Aspartame: 3
7. High fructose corn syrup: 1
8. Pure stevia extract: 9
9. Refined white sugar: 2
10. Pure monk fruit extract: 10
A rare sugar alternative
Now that you know how common sweeteners rate according to their impact on gut health, here's a rare sugar alternative as suggested by a cardiologist: Allulose. In an Instagram post shared on April 11, Dr Alok Chopra, cardiologist and functional medicine expert, suggested allulose as a rare alternative to sugar as it can be beneficial for those with spiked blood sugar or insulin levels.
Per the cardiologist, allulose is low in calories, blood sugar friendly, boosts metabolism and burns fat, protects organs and fights inflammation, and supports energy and performance. Let's find out more about allulose here.
Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Hindustan Times
31 minutes ago
- Hindustan Times
Cardiologist reveals 'blood test that predicts heart attacks and could save your life': 'It's not cholesterol'
Heart attacks are unpredictable. But what if we told you there is a blood test that can predict a heart attack? Dr Dmitry Yaranov, MD (cardiology) and a specialist in heart failure and heart transplantation, often shares heart health tips with his followers, educating them about steps they could take to protect their hearts. CRP exposes silent inflammation that damages your arteries before you feel a single symptom. (Image by Freepik) Also Read | Cardiologist reveals 'real cause of heart diseases' isn't the elevation of cholesterol levels, but this hidden issue In an Instagram post shared on June 16, Dr Yaranov shared a blood test that could save your life and predict if you are at risk of getting a heart attack. Let's find out what it is: This blood test predicts heart attacks According to the cardiologist, the blood test is called CPR. He wrote, 'The blood test that could save your life — and it's not cholesterol. CRP exposes silent inflammation that damages your arteries before you feel a single symptom. Most people have no idea their CRP is high — until it's too late. Even with 'normal' cholesterol, you could still be at risk. This is the kind of info that saves lives.' He added that even with normal cholesterol, having a high CRP would mean high risk. What is CRP? Calling CRP the silent inflammation marker that could save your life, Dr Yaranov explained, 'CRP (C-reactive protein) is made by your liver in response to inflammation. Chronic inflammation damages blood vessels and raises your risk of heart attack and stroke.' Why does it matter? According to the cardiologist, a high CRP is linked to: Heart attack Stroke Narrowed arteries (atherosclerosis) Peripheral artery disease How is it measured? The cardiologist explained that the test is best used with cholesterol and an Lp(a) [Lipoprotein(a) blood test] for a full risk picture. 'The test is called hs-CRP (high-sensitivity CRP),' he added. Here's how to interpret it: >3.0 mg/L=High risk 1.0-3.0 Moderate < 1 = Low How to lower CRP? The cardiologist suggested ways to lower your CRP: Eat a heart-healthy, anti-inflammatory diet Be physically active Lose weight if needed Quit smoking Talk to your doctor about statins or other therapies Lastly, he stressed that inflammation is silent but deadly, and CRP helps uncover hidden cardiovascular risk. So, the next time you are at your doctor's, ask them, 'What's my CRP?' Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
India Today
34 minutes ago
- India Today
Clear protein vs traditional whey protein powder: Which is better?
In the world of fitness, protein powder once meant one thing: a thick, creamy shake, and a staple in almost every fitness enthusiast's daily routine. What started as a fad became the undisputed supplement on shelves. And now, new versions like clear protein are slowly taking powder is no longer a hype, it's gone mainstream. Now, clear protein is quietly making a mark with its light texture, fruity flavours, and gut health benefits. In Gen Z lingo, it's like a minimalist version of traditional protein powder! View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tracy Steen (@movedailyfitness)advertisementWondering how it's actually different from traditional protein powder? We asked experts to break it Protein vs Traditional Whey Protein When you say 'protein powder,' a primary association is formed with a thick, milky shake. It feels heavy, right? Because it is. Now, when you say clear protein, it's actually cleared off of the thickness and heaviness of a traditional supplement. The key differences lie in texture, taste, digestion, and nutritional let's understand what the deal is with clear protein is light, refreshing, and comes in several fruity flavours - grape, lemonade, strawberry, raspberry etc. It's made using a filtered whey protein isolate base that impacts digestion, carbs, fats, and calories. It has lower lactose content, making it suitable for individuals who are lactose here's the bonus - clear protein is typically lower in calories, carbohydrates, and fat, while boasting a high protein content (often above 90 per cent).Vasundhara Padma, Clinical Nutritionist and Chief Dietitian at Apollo Hospitals, Visakhapatnam, tells India Today why it might even have an edge when it comes gut health. 'Clear protein's lightweight and easily digestible nature might be gentle on the gut, making it suitable for those with sensitive stomachs. While the consumption depends on personal requirements, one to two scoops is ideal for most individuals.' Few flavours of clear protein available in India (Photo: Myprotein website) Well, it may sound like a deal you have been waiting for, but there's a little catch. While clear protein is a good option for a low-calorie snack, it might not keep you satiated for long due to its lighter texture. You may need to pair it with other nutrient-dense foods to feel fuller for coming to traditional whey protein is creamy and rich with classic dessert flavours like chocolate or vanilla. Nutritionally, it offers a more balanced macronutrient profile, is higher in calories and fat, and can keep the stomach full for longer there's a but. When it comes to the gut, it may cause discomfort in lactose-intolerant individuals due to its higher lactose content, explains the dietitian. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Laura Dias (@lauraadiass)Clearly, Move with CautionProtein is essential for muscle development. Supplements aim to help people meet their daily protein requirements. But how we consume it and how much, becomes protein is refreshing, offers more flavour variety, and meets your daily intake goals. But, clinical nutritionist Padma cautions that some clear protein products might contain artificial sweeteners or additives that can irritate the gut in certain the other hand, whey protein's high protein content can support gut health by promoting satiety and reducing inflammation. But some people might experience bloating as to Make the Right Pick?According to the experts who spoke with India Today, choosing the right protein supplement depends on your fitness goals, dietary needs, and personal muscle building: Look for protein powders with 20 – 30g of protein per serving and essential amino acids (EAAs) like leucine, isoleucine, and weight loss: Opt for powders with lower calorie counts and added fibre to support satiety. Clear protein can be more helpful with weight loss than traditional supplements, but again is subject to individual's body's needs, according to the endurance or general health: Choose protein powders with a balanced macronutrient profile and added vitamins and dietary needs: For lactose intolerance, you can choose low-lactose or lactose-free options like clear or plant-based proteins (pea, rice, hemp).It is not uncommon to get confused about which protein powder you should buy. The market has several options and this might Sip?Before starting any protein supplement, always evaluate the ingredients, additives, and nutritional content, the expert emphasises. If you have specific dietary concerns, it's best to consult a registered dietitian or healthcare professional for personalised shake or light lemonade, at the end, it's about what suits the body.- EndsTrending Reel
Hindustan Times
an hour ago
- Hindustan Times
Neurosurgeon shares 10 reasons why ‘you need to supplement protein': Keep brain sharp and active, prevent muscle loss
Did you know inadequate protein intake can lead to muscle weakness, particularly in the spine, which can cause back pain and mobility issues? Or that protein can impact your mood, cognitive function, and overall brain health? US neurosurgeon Dr Steven Spitz shared some insights on the importance of protein for brain and spine health in an Instagram post on February 24. Also read | Gastroenterologists reveal truth about protein supplements: Are whey protein powders safe for your liver and kidney? Ensure you're getting enough protein in your diet to support brain and spine health. (Freepik) He shared how protein helps maintain muscle mass and strength, particularly in the spine. In his post, Dr Spitz listed 'top 10 reasons to supplement protein': 'Your spine isn't just bones — it's built on protein' 1. 'Your brain needs protein too. Neurons rely on proteins to communicate, repair damage, and keep your brain sharp (so maybe rethink that all-carb diet),' he said. 2. 'Your spine isn't just bones — it's built on protein. Collagen, the most abundant protein in the body, makes up your spinal discs and connective tissues,' he added. 3. According to Dr Spitz, 'Surgery = trauma. Protein = recovery. After any major surgery, your body needs extra protein to heal muscles, tissues, and even your brain.' 4. 'Protein keeps your nerves firing. Neurotransmitters (like dopamine and serotonin) are made from amino acids, the building blocks of protein,' he added. 5. 'Sleep-deprived neurosurgeons rely on coffee. Your body relies on protein. Protein helps regulate metabolism, immune function, and muscle repair — kind of important if you like staying alive,' Dr Spitz said. 'Protein keeps your muscles and balance in check' 6. He added, 'Your brain is 60 percent fat, but don't forget the protein. Enzymes that power brain function and memory formation are protein-based.' 7. 'Skipping protein? Enjoy your chronic pain. Low protein intake can lead to muscle weakness and joint issues — bad news for anyone with a spine (which is everyone),' Dr Spitz said. 8. 'Protein helps prevent the 'old person shuffle'. Sarcopenia (age-related muscle loss) is real, and eating enough protein keeps your muscles and balance in check,' he added. 9. Dr Spitz further shared, 'Protein helps control post-op swelling. It plays a key role in reducing inflammation, which means faster recovery after surgery or injury.' 10. He concluded, 'Brains, spines, muscles — it's all protein-dependent. If you want to stay strong, sharp, and mobile for life, make sure protein is on your plate.' Would you like more information on protein-rich foods or tips for incorporating protein into your diet? Click here to learn about 10 high-protein foods that make weight loss easy, according to anutritionist. Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
