By Mary Beth Caputo, RD LDN CDE

Did you know??? There are several new options on the market for sweetening your favorite foods and beverages without adding calories. Take a look at the list of products below and check out their websites for conversion tables, recipes, nutritional information, local retailers and more!

What it’s made of: An extract of leaf of a stevia plant, which is native to South America and Central America.

Brief Facts:
• It has been used in Japan as a sweetener for many years and was previously only available in the U.S. as dietary supplement. It was approved by the FDA in 2008 as a food.
• Zero calories
• 200-300 times sweeter than sugar
• Can be used in baked goods

For More information go to: www.truvia.com; www.stevia.com

What it’s made of: Xylitol (a sugar alcohol)

Brief Facts:
• Zero calories
• Said to have health benefits
• Safe for pregnant and nursing women
• Can be used in baked goods

For More information go to: www.idealsweet.com

What it’s made of: Erythritol (a sugar alcohol)

Brief Facts:
• Zero calories
• Does not cause side effects that other sugar alcohols do.

For More information go to: www.zsweet.com or www.zerosesweetener.com

What it’s made of: Mexican plant Agave- usually in liquid form “nectar”.

Brief Facts:
• Contains 56 calories per Tbsp (sugar contains 50 calories/Tbsp)
• Contains Inulin, a prebiotic fiber, calcium, and iron
• 1.4 to 1.5 times sweeter than sugar
• Can be used in baked goods with some adjustments

For More information go to: www.xagave.com

What it’s made of: Sucralose with added fiber

Brief Facts:
• Contains 1 gram of soluble fiber per packet.

For More information go to: www.splenda.com or 1-800-777-5363

For a referral to a registered dietitian and for additional food and nutrition information visit
WWW.EATRIGHT.ORG

©2007 ADA. Reproduction of this fact sheet is premittied for eductional purposes. Reproduction for sales purposes is not authorized.
This fact sheet expires 2/2010.

The contents of this fact sheet have been reviewed by the American Dietetic Association's Fact Sheet Review Board. The appearance of this information does not constitute an endorsement by ADA of the sponsor's products or services. This fact sheet was prepared for the general public. Questions regarding its content and use should be directed to a registered dietitian.