Stevia vs. Splenda: Which is healthier? What's their difference, and how can you use them interchangeably? These are important questions if you're trying to figure out what's better for you and how to use them for your coffee or recipes, especially if it's a sugar substitute.
The difference between Stevia and Splenda is more substantial than you might think. For example, while they are both sweeteners, they are also prone to toxicity because they can withstand heat. However, they are also different regarding taste and how they are processed.
This guide explores the differences between Stevia and Splenda. We look at the unique differences that separate them, from how they are processed, what health benefits they offer, and how they can be used in different recipes.
Stevia vs. Splenda: What's the Difference?
In 1992, the world was introduced to Splenda. In 1998, the world was introduced to Stevia. Only years apart, these sweeteners have had major impacts on how food is made. They've influenced how we eat and make certain foods. But the process of making them shows how they are so different.
Splenda is a low-calorie sweetener that's considered an artificial sweetener. One of the things that makes Splenda is how maltodextrin is added to sucralose. You can find Splenda in grocery stores in liquid forms and packets. You may also recognize the packets at a restaurant. Splenda packets are often used as the sugar choice for coffee.
One of the benefits of Splenda over other sweeteners is that it doesn't have a bitter aftertaste like other sweeteners. However, if you're looking for an alternative to Splenda, the best option is Stevia. This is a calorie-free sweetener that is derived from a Stevia plant. This plant is harvested, dried, and seeped to get the sweetness from the plant.
In grocery stores, you can also find Stevia blends. This is a refined Stevia extract called rebaudioside A. You also find maltodextrin and erythritol in blends with Stevia, like Truvia, another sweetener. One of the things that makes Stevia unique from Splenda is that it contains glycosides.
While they are both sweeteners and can be used interchangeably in some instances, it's worth looking at which one is healthier.
What's the Healthier Choice?
While Stevia and Splenda are great alternatives to granulated sugar, it's important to know what's the better choice. For example, Stevia offers zero calories, while Splenda offers some calories. They also provide minimal carbohydrates.
Aside from these nutritional differences, they also have some nutritional benefits. For instance, Stevia can lower blood pressure, according to some studies. On the other hand, Splenda can help you reduce calorie intake because it's an alternative to sugar. Splenda also helps keep your blood sugar low and avoids spikes that could potentially increase your risk of diabetes.
The Taste Differences
One of the biggest differences between Splenda and Stevia is the taste differences. Finding which one you prefer is a matter of preference. Trying Splenda or Stevia in your coffee or other recipes can give you an idea of which one you like more.
Having said that, it's important to recognize that Stevia is 200 times sweeter than sugar. Splenda is 400 to 600 times sweeter than sugar. While they are sweeter than sugar, they are not as unhealthy as sugar.
Recipes for Both
With either Splenda or Stevia, the goal is to know what recipes can be used with either one. A lot of recipes involve baking, but there are other kinds of foods you can make that involve either one.
Here are the best recipes involving Stevia.
- Smoothies with Stevia
- Brownies with Stevia
- Apple Crumble with Stevia
- Hot Chocolate with Stevia
Here are the best recipes involving Splenda.
- Smoothies with added Splenda
- Peach cobbler with Splenda
- Pecan French toast with Splenda
- Muffin bread with Splenda
Finding the right recipe with either Splenda or Stevia requires a bit of experimentation. You can also try recipes that substitute granulated sugar with either Stevia or Splenda. It may lose some natural sweetness, but it may also be a bit healthier.
Does It Matter If You Use Stevia or Splenda?
There's no wrong choice if you prefer Stevia or Splenda. Tasting either one of them in your coffee, desserts, or other foods can give you an idea of which one you like more. It can give you an idea of the sweetness you're looking for.
Overall, choosing between Stevia or Splenda is a matter of preference. You may like both for different occasions. Understanding how both are made and what makes them unique can give you insight into which one you should try.