Looking for a vegan protein powder that doesn’t contain any artificial sweeteners? In this blog post, we explore options that use cane sugar as a natural sweetener.
In this article:
- Cane Sugar vs Low-Calorie Sweeteners: Which is Healthier?
- The Top Vegan Protein Powders With Cane Sugar
- The Bottom Line: Making a Decision
1. Cane Sugar vs Low-Calorie Sweeteners: Which is Healthier?
The debate between cane sugar and low-calorie sweeteners is one that has been around for years. And, with both sides claiming that their respective choice is the healthier option, it can be hard to know who to believe.
So, what’s the verdict? Is cane sugar or a low-calorie sweetener better for your health? Let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of each type of sweetener to help you make an informed decision.
1.1. Cane Sugar
Cane sugar is a type of refined sugar that is made from the juice of sugar cane. It is often used in baking and as a sweetener in coffee and tea.
Pros:
Cane sugar retains nutrients
Cane sugar is a natural product made from the juice of sugar cane. The cane is crushed and the juice is extracted, then the juice is boiled to evaporate the water. The resulting syrup is then cooled and crystallized to form granulated sugar.
Unlike other types of refined sugar, which are processed and stripped of their natural nutrients, cane sugar retains many of the vitamins and minerals that are found in raw cane.
Cane sugar has a lower glycemic index than other types of sugar
Cane sugar has a lower glycemic index than other types of sugar, such as beet sugar or corn sugar. This means that it won’t cause your blood sugar levels to spike as much after eating.
Cons:
Cane sugar is a processed product
Cane sugar is often touted as a healthier alternative to other types of sugar, but it’s important to remember that it is still a processed product. Cane sugar is produced by extracting the sugar from sugar cane, and then refining it to remove impurities. And while cane sugar is less refined than other types of sugar, it is still highly processed and lacks the fiber and other nutrients that are found in whole foods. For this reason, it’s best to moderate your intake of cane sugar and focus on eating more whole foods instead.
Most Cane Sugar has been processed with chemicals
When looking at the advantages of cane sugar over low-calorie sweeteners, many are looking for a chemical-free alternative. However, it’s important to keep in mind that most cane sugar has been processed with chemicals. Unless it’s organic, most sugar cane plants are treated with a variety of herbicides and pesticides. In addition, during the harvesting and refining process, sugar cane may be exposed to a number of chemicals, including sulfur dioxide, bleach, and activated carbon. As a result, while cane sugar may be a more natural alternative to some low-calorie sweeteners, it is not necessarily chemical-free.
1.2. Low-Calorie Sweeteners
Low-calorie sweeteners are natural or artificial sweeteners that are often used as a substitute for cane sugar. They are much sweeter than regular sugar, so you only need to use a small amount to achieve the same level of sweetness. Examples are aspartame, sucralose, and stevia.
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Pros:
Low-calorie sweeteners are much lower in calories than cane sugar.
For example, Truvia is made from stevia extract and erythritol, and it has just four calories per packet. In comparison, a packet of cane sugar has almost 50 calories.
Low-calorie sweeteners cause fewer blood sugar level spikes
Low-calorie sweeteners have been shown to cause less of a spike in blood sugar levels than regular sugar. For people with diabetes, this is good news as it can help to regulate their blood sugar levels.
Cons:
Some low-calorie sweeteners have been linked with health concerns
Some studies have linked these substances to a variety of health concerns, including cancer, weight gain, and gastrointestinal problems. More research is needed before definitive conclusions can be drawn. In the meantime, people who are concerned about the safety of low-calorie sweeteners may want to limit their intake.
Low-calorie sweeteners can often have a bitter aftertaste
This is because they are typically made from artificial sweeteners, which can interact with the taste receptors on our tongues. It might also be due to the fact that these sweeteners are much sweeter than sugar, and the body is not used to processing such high levels of sweetness. As a result, the brain interprets this as a bitter taste.
Low-calorie sweeteners may lead to more cravings for sugary foods
As our taste buds become more accustomed to the intense sweetness of non-nutritive sweeteners, we may start to find foods that are not as sweet to be less appealing. This is because these artificial sweeteners overstimulate sugar receptors, desensitizing us to other levels of sweetness. As a result, we may start to crave more sugary foods and drinks, leading us to consume more calories overall. In addition, we may start to avoid healthy, unsweetened foods altogether, missing out on important nutrients.
So, which is the healthier option? Cane sugar or low-calorie sweeteners? The answer may depend on your individual needs and preferences. Just be sure to do your research and choose the option that you feel is best for your health.
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2. The Top Vegan Protein Powders With Cane Sugar
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2.1. Vega Protein Made Simple
Vega Protein Made Simple is a great choice for those looking for a clean protein powder with a simple ingredient list. There is no stevia or added gums, just cane sugar. This protein powder is perfect for those who want a hint of sweetness without any artificial flavors or sweeteners.
Ingredients:
Pea Protein, Organic Cane Sugar, Coconut Cream Powder, Natural Flavors.
Highlights:
- Protein: 15g per 26g portion (58% protein)
- Carbohydrates: 7g per 26g portion (27% carbs)
- Sugar: 5g of added sugars
- Simple, clean ingredient list
2.2. OWYN Only What You Need Plant-Based Protein Powder
OWYN Protein powder is sweetened with cane sugar, and also includes monk fruit extract for a natural added sweetness. It contains 20 grams of protein and is also fortified with greens and probiotics, making it a great option for those who are looking for extra health benefits.
Ingredients:
OWYN Protein Blend (Pea Protein Concentrate, Pumpkin Protein, Chia), providing BCAA (Leucine, Isoleucine, Valine), Organic Cane Sugar, Cocoa, Natural Flavors, Sea Salt, Xantham Gum, Monk Fruit Extract, Silica, Superfoods & Greens Blend (Kale, Spinach, Broccoli), Mineralized Seaweed, Bacillus coagulans MTCC5858 (1B CFUs), Flaxseeds.
Highlights:
- Protein: 20g per 35.3g portion (57% protein)
- Carbohydrates: 8g per 35.3g portion (23% carbs)
- Sugar: 4g of added sugar
- BCAAs, Greens, and Probiotics for extra health benefits
- Labeled Peanut Free and Treanut Free
2.3. MaryRuth’s Vegan Protein Powder
MaryRuth’s Vegan Protein Powder is made with only 6 ingredients and is sweetened with cane sugar. In addition to being a great source of protein, MaryRuth’s Vegan Protein Powder is also organic. This protein powder is labeled nut-free, specifying that it contains no peanuts or tree nuts.
Ingredients:
Organic Pumpkin Seed Protein Powder, Organic Cane Sugar, Cocoa Powder, Organic Natural Chocolate Flavor (from Cocoa Beans), Organic Natural Vanilla Flavor (from Vanilla Beans), Xanthan Gum
Highlights:
- Protein: 14g per 28g portion (50% protein)
- Carbohydrates: 9g per 28g portion (32% carbs)
- Sugar: 5g of added sugar
- Organic
- Labeled Nut Free, specifying it contains no peanuts and tree nuts.
3. The Bottom Line: Making a Decision
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Vega Protein Made Simple is the cleanest option, including no added gums or other sweeteners, with a very simple ingredient list.
OWYN Protein powder is the option with the least amount of added sugar, 4g per portion. It also has greens and probiotics added, for additional health benef its. Keep in mind it does contain some additives such as monk fruit extract, a natural sweetener.
Finally, MaryRuth’s Vegan Protein Powder is a great option for those looking for an all-organic alternative with a relatively simple ingredient list.