mybest
Sugar alternatives

Helping You Find the Best

Close
  1. TOP
  2. Food and drinks
  3. Sweeteners and syrups
  4. 10 Best Sugar Alternatives in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Nutritionist-Dietitian
  • 10 Best Sugar Alternatives in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Nutritionist-Dietitian 1
  • 10 Best Sugar Alternatives in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Nutritionist-Dietitian 2
  • 10 Best Sugar Alternatives in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Nutritionist-Dietitian 3
  • 10 Best Sugar Alternatives in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Nutritionist-Dietitian 4
  • 10 Best Sugar Alternatives in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Nutritionist-Dietitian 5

10 Best Sugar Alternatives in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Nutritionist-Dietitian

A significant percentage of the population cannot consume or prefer not to consume a lot of sugar, so many sugar alternatives have been emerging to meet their needs. In the Philippines, 1 in 5 Filipinos has been seen to be within the diabetic or pre-diabetic range primarily because we love sweets and other sugary foods. Most of our snacks are higher in carbohydrates and low in fats and protein. 

Our buying guide in this article will help you understand the differences between various types of sugar alternatives. We have also rounded up a list of the top 10 best sugar alternatives you can enjoy without worrying about your blood sugar level. And best of all, we have nutritionist Jo Sebastian lending us her expertise! We hope that this article would help you go on satisfying your sweet tooth without endangering your health. 
Last updated 07/14/2023
Jo Sebastian
Expert
Nutritionist-Dietitian
Jo Sebastian

Jo Sebastian is a Registered Nutritionist-Dietitian who graduated BS Community Nutrition from the University of the Philippines, Diliman. Throughout the past year she has worked with Uniqlo, Adidas, Rebel Fitness app, and more to make nutrition fun, easy and accessible. She believes that life is not about restricting food but through simple lifestyle and dietary changes to attain our optimal health we can reach our full potential.

Jo Sebastian's Profile
…Continue reading
Editorial Team
Guide
mybest
Editorial Team

Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.

Editorial Team's Profile
…Continue reading
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.

Table of Contents

Benefits of Sugar Alternatives

Benefits of Sugar Alternatives

We already know that too much sugar is bad for our teeth. But recent research has established that sugar creates many problems in the body when consumed excessively. Diets high in sugar lead to increased insulin and fat storage. This, in turn, leads to even more complications such as diabetes, heart disease, and other serious illnesses. 


The hormones that regulate hunger also get affected, and we develop an addiction to sugar because it activates the brain's reward system every time we consume sugar. This leads to overeating and cravings that lead us away from making better food choices. 


This is where sugar alternatives can help. By giving us that same sweet kick that we are looking for, our cravings are satisfied without triggering harmful metabolic responses. Below, we will show you the top sugar substitute choices available in the market to help you eat healthier. 

Jo Sebastian
Nutritionist-Dietitian
Jo Sebastian

Sugar is not evil on its own. It is usually how much sugar we consume that we have to look out for. We also have to look into what sugar replaces in our diets. The tendency is to have a higher added sugar intake and lower vegetable, fruit, protein, and unsaturated fats.


Recommendations are around 35-45g of added sugar per day. Remember that added sugar is what we want to look out for and not necessarily all the sugar right away.

How to Choose a Sugar Alternative – Buying Guide

Here are some key points to consider:


  1. Choose between nutritive and non-nutritive sweeteners.
  2. Get a sugar alternative based on your preferences and dietary restrictions.
  3. Buy from trusted brands for a safer choice.

For more detailed information, read through our buying guide below.

1

Choose Between Nutritive and Non-Nutritive Sweeteners

Choose Between Nutritive and Non-Nutritive Sweeteners

Sugar substitutes are categorized into two main groups - nutritive and non-nutritive. Nutritive sweeteners are also known as caloric sugars because they provide energy as carbohydrates. Aside from sweetness, they offer some nutrition like vitamins and minerals


On the other hand, non-nutritive sweeteners provide fewer calories per gram than sugar; in fact, most of them have little to no calories at all. They offer no nutritional value and are much sweeter, so just a little goes a long way.  However, the digestive system does not completely absorb them. 

Jo Sebastian
Nutritionist-Dietitian
Jo Sebastian

Just because a sweetener has calories does not automatically mean they are bad or harmful for the body. Especially since most caloric sweeteners (like coco sugar, honey, and agave, among others) have other nutrients and antioxidants to offer


However, if the main concern is blood sugar levels, then taking note of the amount of added sugar you consume or switching to non-nutritive sweeteners once and a while can be beneficial.

2

Get a Sugar Alternative Based on Your Preferences and Dietary Restrictions

Not all sugar substitutes are equal. They each have their own properties and different levels of sweetness and ratios to regular sugar. It's important to know what these properties are so that you can make a better choice. Here are the most common types of sugar alternatives available. 

Stevia for Ultimate Sweetness

Stevia for Ultimate Sweetness

Stevia is the most common type of sugar alternative available in the market. It is extracted from the leaves of the stevia plant and can be found in powder or liquid form. Stevia packs a wallop - it can be up to 300 times sweeter than sugar. It is classified as a non-nutritive sweetener, meaning that no nutrition can be derived from it. 


It can simply give you the sweet taste you are craving, but it won't raise your glucose levels because it has no carbohydrates and calories in it. However, when used excessively, stevia can begin to affect the way your body metabolizes fat and energy. 


So in order to keep reaping its benefits of being zero-calorie and zero-carbohydrate, it is advisable to use stevia moderately. It is best used as a sweetener for drinks and baking recipes.  

Jo Sebastian
Nutritionist-Dietitian
Jo Sebastian

Just like all sugar alternatives it’s important not to abuse it in your diet. The safe level of consumption for stevia is 4mg/kg of bodyweight per day!

Sugar Alcohols From Natural Fruit and Vegetable Fibers

Sugar Alcohols From Natural Fruit and Vegetable Fibers

Sugar alcohols are derived from the natural fiber in fruits and vegetables. There are a number of sugar alcohols, but the most commonly-used are sucralose, erythritol, and xylitol. You can find these in powder or granulated form. Sugar alcohols contain very few calories but taste like the real thing, even if they have about 70% of the sweetness of sugar. 


Because it has a few calories, keto dieters tend to shy away from it. But they are safe for diabetics since they have a relatively low impact on blood glucose. However, they may cause gas or diarrhea, so people with sensitive stomachs might want to consume only small doses. 

Jo Sebastian
Nutritionist-Dietitian
Jo Sebastian

Sugar alcohols are considered to be non-nutritive sweeteners. They provide taste but no nutrients. Because it is not recognized by the gut, it can cause disruptions. Those who have IBS, GERD, or IBD might want to watch out for sugar alcohols.

Coconut Sugar for Added Vitamins and Minerals

Coconut Sugar for Added Vitamins and Minerals

Coconut sugar is one of those health foods that have risen to popularity in recent years. It is a natural sugar made from coconut palm sap. Coconut sugar is considered a nutritive sugar, with many minerals and vitamins packed in it, such as potassium, iron, and calcium. 


What makes it good for diabetics is the presence of inulin fiber, which slows the absorption of glucose and keeps blood sugar levels balanced. It gives coconut sugar a low glycemic index. This is necessary for the proper control of diabetes, as well as for lowering cholesterol.


However, coconut sugar does have almost the same number of calories per serving as regular sugar. A teaspoon contains approximately 15 calories and 4 grams of carbohydrates, so it should be used in moderation, especially if you are trying to lose weight. 

Jo Sebastian
Nutritionist-Dietitian
Jo Sebastian

While coconut sugar may have a lower glycemic index, the impact on your blood sugar is relatively the same as that of white sugar. Coconut sugar and white sugar have about the same amount of carbohydrates and calories as well. However, the main winner for coco sugar is the fact that it contains inulin, which is beneficial for gut health, and many other nutrients. 

Monk Fruit for Safe Use by Pregnant Women

Monk Fruit for Safe Use by Pregnant Women

Monk fruit sweeteners are derived from the tiny monk fruit, a fruit found in China. The fruit is crushed, and the juice is collected to make the sweetener. It is 150-200 times sweeter than sugar but has no calories. Only very small amounts of monk fruit sweeteners are needed to match the sweetness level of sugar.


It is also safe for children since there is no risk of cavities. It is safe for pregnant and lactating women as well. Since it contains zero net carbs and zero calories, it is a good choice for diabetics and people who want to lose weight. 


However, to make measuring and pouring easier, monk fruit sweeteners are sometimes blended with molasses or other syrups, which would then alter the sugar level. So it is wise to check first what other substances, if ever, are present with the sweetener.

Jo Sebastian
Nutritionist-Dietitian
Jo Sebastian

Most monk fruit sweeteners will be paired with erythritol. So watch out for the sugar alcohols if you experience any gut disturbances.

Yacon Syrup for Additional Probiotic Benefits

Yacon Syrup for Additional Probiotic Benefits

Yacon syrup is the newest kid on the sugar substitutes-block, but it has already surged to popularity among people with diabetes. It comes from the yacon, a root vegetable that is similar to a sweet potato but is more nutritious. It can be used as an alternative for honey, maple, or agave syrup.


For people with diabetes, the good news is that the syrup contains fructooligosaccharides, a type of starch that is indigestible. This means that it does not raise blood sugar levels. Research studies also state that yacon syrup may actually reduce insulin resistance and fasting insulin levels.  


Another benefit of yacon syrup is that it is prebiotic. Once it reaches the digestive system, it feeds the good bacteria in the gut, leading to a lower risk of diabetes and a better immune system. However, it is not recommended for keto dieters and people who want to lose weight because it contains calories.

Jo Sebastian
Nutritionist-Dietitian
Jo Sebastian

While Yacon syrup has benefits for the gut, an overload in consumption can have the opposite effects. 

3

Buy From Trusted Brands for a Safer Choice

Buy From Trusted Brands for a Safer Choice
Consumers always look at the brand no matter what. This is even more important when it comes to edible products. When it comes to things that we ingest, we don’t want to decide carelessly because our health will be at risk.

Make sure to check the brand of the sugar alternative you want to buy. It is always safer to check out the leading brands in the market because it is more likely that they ensure better quality control than unknown brands. Look for FDA approval as an additional step to find safe products. 


You can also do your own research online and review the background of the brands you are eyeing. There are a lot of reviews online about these products that you can get ideas from. Research does take time, but your body deserves the extra effort. 

Jo Sebastian
Nutritionist-Dietitian
Jo Sebastian

Aside from buying from trusted brands, it is important to be educated on the safe amounts of the sugar alternatives.

Was the Buying Guide helpful?

10 Best Sugar Alternatives to Buy Online

The products we introduce below were carefully curated by the mybest team, from the best-sellers of E-commerce sites like Lazada, and using the points mentioned in our detailed and thoroughly researched buying guide.
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Price
Key features
1

Equal

Gold No CalorieBox of 750 sticks

Equal Gold No Calorie 1

₱1,078

High Mid

No Calories and No Aftertaste

2

Equal

Naturals Stevia 100% Natural Zero-Calorie SweetenerBox of 40 sticks

Equal Naturals Stevia 100% Natural Zero-Calorie Sweetener 1

₱142

Low Mid

Enjoy a Guilt-Free Sweet Life

3

Sweet Best

Erythritol

Sweet Best Erythritol 1

₱227.06

Low Mid

The Zero-Net-Carb Bakers' Choice

4

Lakanto

Monkfruit Sweetener

Lakanto Monkfruit Sweetener 1

₱750

High Mid

Suitable for Vegan and All-Natural Diets

5

Splenda

Naturals Stevia

Splenda Naturals Stevia 1

₱540

Mid

Experience No-Calorie Natural Sweetness

6

Now Real Food

Xylitol

Now Real Food Xylitol  1

₱749

High Mid

Derived From Non-GMO Corn

7

Zint

Yacon Syrup

Zint Yacon Syrup  1

₱1,190

High Mid

A Prebiotic Sweetener to Nourish the Good Bacteria in Your Gut

8

Superfood Grocer

Coconut Sugar

Superfood Grocer Coconut Sugar 1

₱250

Low Mid

A Natural, Unrefined Sweetener

9

Quezon's Best

Coconut Sweetener

Quezon's Best Coconut Sweetener 1

₱180

Low Mid

Organic Sweetener With a Caramel Flavor

10

Equal

Classic Zero-Calorie Sweetener Tablet

Equal Classic Zero-Calorie Sweetener Tablet 1

₱171

Low Mid

A Convenient Way to Sweeten Your Drinks

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

EqualGold No CalorieBox of 750 sticks

Gold No Calorie 1
Source:shopee.ph
Reference price
₱1,078
High Mid
Reference price
₱1,078
High Mid

No Calories and No Aftertaste

This product is a favorite among keto dieters. It is a blend of sucralose and erythritol and can give you the sweet kick you are looking for without the calories. It can be used for a lot of things - for drinks, baking, yogurts, cereals, and more. 

It is also gluten-free and has zero cholesterol and trans fat, making it a good choice for people with celiac issues and gluten intolerance. Just keep in mind because this sugar substitute is very sweet - 1 stick is equal to 2 teaspoons. So if you're using it to sweeten your drinks, you need to remember that only half a stick is enough. 


Another great thing about this product is that it does not have any aftertaste. All you'll get is a clean and crisp taste. This is especially helpful with baking, where you don't want your goodies to be spoiled with a distinct aftertaste. 

Was this Ranking helpful?
No.2

EqualNaturals Stevia 100% Natural Zero-Calorie SweetenerBox of 40 sticks

Naturals Stevia 100% Natural Zero-Calorie Sweetener 1
Source:shopee.ph
Reference price
₱142
Low Mid

Enjoy a Guilt-Free Sweet Life

This 100% natural sweetener lets you enjoy a guilt-free sweet life primarily because it contains no carbs and calories. It is also non-GMO and is suitable for vegans and people with celiac disease. This sugar substitute is a wonderful choice as well for people with hypertension and those who want to maintain good oral health.

The box includes 100 sticks of sweetener where each stick is equal to 1 teaspoon of table sugar, although you can use less since stevia is up to 300x sweeter than sugar. Users often find that using only about a fourth or a half of a stick is enough to make their drinks sweet. 
No.3

Sweet BestErythritol

Erythritol 1
Source:shopee.ph
Reference price
₱227.06
Low Mid
Reference price
₱227.06
Low Mid

The Zero-Net-Carb Bakers' Choice

Sweeten your favorite recipes with Sweet Best Erythritol without worrying about unwanted calories! This sugar substitute is well-loved by bakers and keto dieters who prefer making low-carb recipes. It contains a unique blend of non-GMO ingredients derived from plants and fruits. 


Erythritol is about 70% as sweet as sugar and is non-glycemic - it does not cause any fluctuations in blood sugar. While it is not a zero-calorie product, it is considered a zero net carb sugar alternative because of its non-glycemic properties. Therefore, the minimal carbohydrates it contains are considered non-impact and safe for use by dieters. 

No.4

LakantoMonkfruit Sweetener

Monkfruit Sweetener 1
Source:shopee.ph
Reference price
₱750
High Mid

Suitable for Vegan and All-Natural Diets

Monk fruit has been used for centuries in eastern traditional herbalism and for a good cause. This product is a healthy alternative to sugar because it is non-glycemic and won't impact your blood sugar levels. You can use it to sweeten drinks and also for baking because it has no bitter aftertaste. 


This is also an acceptable sugar substitute for use with the keto diet because it contains zero carbs and calories. Users say this smells and tastes like brown sugar and definitely has a deeper and more intense sweetness than regular white sugar. It is also suitable for vegan and all-natural diets.

No.5

SplendaNaturals Stevia

Reference price
₱540
Mid

Experience No-Calorie Natural Sweetness

Splenda is one of the world-renowned brands for sugar substitutes. It uses Reb D, one of the sweetest Stevia leaf extracts, to unlock the sweetness without leaving a bitter aftertaste. This sweetener is an excellent addition to your beverages and a great sprinkling condiment for your favorite foods! 

It is GMO-free, sugar-free, and calorie-free, which is why people who are trying to lose weight love it. But it is not just for dieters or diabetics. It's also for everyone in the family – teenagers, adults, and seniors! Just keep in mind that it sweetens faster when sprinkled on cold food than when used with hot drinks or food. 

No.6

Now Real FoodXylitol

Xylitol  1
Source:cf.shopee.ph
Reference price
₱749
High Mid

Derived From Non-GMO Corn

There are very few xylitol products available in the Philippines, so this product is a welcome find. Derived from non-GMO corn, this sugar substitute is one that has a low glycemic impact and one-third the calories of other sugars. This makes it a great choice for both diabetics and dieters alike. 


It's important to note, though, that if you have pets, it is best to keep this product away from them. It can also cause diarrhea if consumed excessively. But when taken properly, in a 1:1 sugar ratio, xylitol is a pure and organic healthy alternative to sugar and can be used in many ways, whether it's for sweetening drinks or for baking.    

No.7

ZintYacon Syrup

Yacon Syrup  1
Source:cf.shopee.ph
Reference price
₱1,190
High Mid
Reference price
₱1,190
High Mid

A Prebiotic Sweetener to Nourish the Good Bacteria in Your Gut

Yacon sweeteners are currently making waves in the sugar-free community as more research has come out about their health benefits, especially as a sugar substitute. This syrup is extracted from the flowers of the yacon plants on the northern coasts of Peru.


This product is a 100% pure, natural, and organic way to switch from regular sugar. But it doesn't stop there. It also has the added advantage of being a powerful prebiotic that nourishes the good bacteria in your gut to keep your digestive system healthy. 


It is low-glycemic, non-GMO, and free of common allergens such as wheat, gluten, dairy, peanut, and soy, making it a good choice for people with these food allergies. With its sweet taste, it is a great substitute for maple syrup or honey

No.8

Superfood GrocerCoconut Sugar

Coconut Sugar 1
Source:shopee.ph
Reference price
₱250
Low Mid

A Natural, Unrefined Sweetener

This product is made by Superfood Grocer, which empowers Filipino farmers by partnering up with them to harvest the sugar. It is made from freshly harvested sap that flows out of the coconut flower and is unrefined, making it a 100% natural source of sweetness.

This sugar has a yummy, subtle caramel flavor and is light in color. It has a low glycemic index, so it is safe for people with diabetes. However, it is not a low-carb or low-calorie product, so dieters must consume it with caution. It is a good choice for athletes or people who engage in strenuous activities because it is rich in nutrients and releases energy slowly.

No.9

Quezon's BestCoconut Sweetener

Reference price
₱180
Low Mid

Organic Sweetener With a Caramel Flavor

If you like organic ingredients, this sugar substitute might be the right one for you. This product is raw and organic and has a lovely soft caramel flavor that is similar to light brown sugar. It dissolves quickly in coffee or tea and mixes well with shakes and juices, too. 

It can raise blood glucose levels so it is helpful for people with hypoglycemia and low energy levels. At the same time, with its naturally low glycemic index, there is very little chance for your blood sugar to spike up. 

No.10

EqualClassic Zero-Calorie Sweetener Tablet

Reference price
₱171
Low Mid

A Convenient Way to Sweeten Your Drinks

If you want something new to sweeten things up, have fun with Equal Classic Sweetener! It comes in a tablet form that you can easily drop it into your hot or cold drinks. It is perfect for people who travel or who work in an office because it is a convenient way to stay healthy away from home.

Just like the stick version, this product is great for people who want to stay slim and fit because it has no calories. The pack contains 200 tablets where one tablet is equal to 1 teaspoon of table sugar, just right for your hot coffee! Just make sure to stir your beverage thoroughly until the tablet melts to make sure there is no remaining residue at the bottom.

Frequently Asked Questions Answered by Jo Sebastian

Switching to sugar alternatives can be difficult, especially for people with a sweet tooth. Jo Sebastian answers the most frequently asked questions from people who want to go for healthier dietary changes.

Can You Use Sugar Alternatives When Baking?

Yes, you can use sugar alternatives for baking! However, the texture and baking time may vary even if it says that the amount to use is directly proportional. It’s important to be aware of this and do some trials when using it.

What Is the Best Sugar Alternative for Diabetics?

It definitely varies from case to case! An important thing to remember is everything in moderation. While some diabetics may feel satisfied with sugar alternatives like stevia and sugar alcohols, the body often does not recognize this as a source of energy, and it could lead to snacking later on.


As long as the sugar is timed and portioned properly with medications and exercise and paired with something high in protein, fat, or fiber, it could still be consumed by diabetics.

Are Sugar Alternatives Safe to Consume Everyday?

Yes, they are safe to consume daily as long as they are consumed in the right amounts. Each sugar alternative usually has a recommended intake per day deemed safe.

More Tips From Jo Sebastian

Jo Sebastian
Nutritionist-Dietitian
Jo Sebastian
Remember that simply replacing sugar is not the only answer to health or blood sugar control. It is important to also add in the important nutrients for blood sugar control like fiber, protein, and unsaturated fats. Sugar is not evil in the right amounts and can have a place in everyone’s diet. 

More Products to Keep Your Body Healthy

It's true what they say - health is wealth. No amount of money can make up for poor health. It is essential that we make the right food and fitness choices to ensure we enjoy a long and productive life. Here are some articles that you might find useful as you start to be more mindful of your health. 

How We Chose and Ranked Our Product Recommendations

Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.

Top 5 Sugar Alternatives

No. 1: EqualGold No CalorieBox of 750 sticks

No. 2: EqualNaturals Stevia 100% Natural Zero-Calorie SweetenerBox of 40 sticks

No. 3: Sweet BestErythritol

No. 4: LakantoMonkfruit Sweetener

No. 5: SplendaNaturals Stevia

View Full Ranking
The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
  1. TOP
  2. Food and drinks
  3. Sweeteners and syrups
  4. 10 Best Sugar Alternatives in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Nutritionist-Dietitian

Search by category

mybest

We connect users with the best tried and true products,
tested by our in-house guides and backed by expert insight.

Copyright mybest All Rights Reserved.