Let’s Talk Fall Treats, Sugar, and Smarter Swaps
Fall is here in full swing — the cozy sweaters, crunchy leaves, pumpkin everything... and let’s be honest, a whole lotta sugar. From caramel-drenched lattes to spiced baked goods, sugar sneaks in fast this season. But here’s the thing: while I’m all for indulgence, I want to feel good after I eat. That’s why we’re big fans of using natural, mineral-rich sweeteners in the New Leaf Table kitchen — sweet options that actually nourish instead of deplete.
Why Ditch the Refined Sugar?
Too much sugar doesn’t just spike your blood sugar — it actually burns through nutrients your body needs to stay energized and well:
- It depletes magnesium (vital for stress and sleep!)
- It blocks zinc and vitamin C absorption (hello, immune crash)
- It burns through B vitamins and chromium, which help stabilize energy
Not to mention the brain fog, fatigue, and inflammation that can follow. No thanks.
So What Do We Use?
At New Leaf Table, we love sweeteners that are as close to nature as possible — things your body can recognize, use, and enjoy without crashing later. Here are a few of Chef E’s favorites you’ll find in our recipes:
- 🍯 Raw Local Honey – full of trace minerals and enzymes; supports seasonal allergy defense too!
- 🍁 100% Pure Maple Syrup – not just for pancakes! It brings deep flavor and naturally contains zinc and manganese.
- 🥥 Coconut Sugar – lower glycemic, rich in potassium and iron, and caramel-y delicious.
- 🧁 Date Sugar or Medjool Dates – great for baking, full of fiber, and unrefined.
- 🫐 Mashed Banana or Applesauce – whole food sweetness, especially in muffins and quick breads.
These swaps don’t just cut the sugar crash — they actually help support your body while still giving you those warm, cozy fall vibes.
Want more nourishing swaps and full fall menus delivered every week?
✨ Join us at New Leaf Table — where healthy never means boring.
With sweetness and simplicity,
Chef E
Founder of New Leaf Table
© 2024 New Leaf Table