Ready for the Course: How to Buy the Right Low Sugar Barbecue Sauces
Introduction
BBQ season is upon us and that means it's time to fire up the grill and start cooking. But if you're trying to eat healthier, you may be concerned about the sugar content in your barbecue sauce.
Sugar can be a major contributor to weight gain and chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease. Fortunately, there are plenty of low sugar barbecue sauces on the market that can help you enjoy the flavors of summer without packing on the pounds. In this article, we'll go over some tips for choosing the best low sugar barbecue sauces.
Read the Label
The first step in choosing a low sugar barbecue sauce is to read the label. Pay attention to the ingredients list and the nutrition facts panel. Look for sauces that have less than 10 grams of sugar per serving. It's also a good idea to avoid sauces that have added sugars such as corn syrup, fructose, and molasses. These ingredients can add up quickly and can make a sauce high in sugar even if it doesn't taste sweet.
Look for Natural Sweeteners
Another way to choose a low sugar barbecue sauce is to look for ones that use natural sweeteners instead of added sugars. Natural sweeteners such as honey and maple syrup are still high in sugar, but they also contain other beneficial nutrients. They also have a more complex flavor than added sugars, so you may find that you need less of them to achieve the desired sweetness.
Choose a Tomato-Based Sauce
Most barbecue sauces are made with tomatoes as a base. Tomatoes are naturally low in sugar and are a good source of vitamins A and C. They also contain the antioxidant lycopene, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. When choosing a barbecue sauce, look for one that is made with tomatoes as the main ingredient. This will help to keep the sugar content low and provide you with some added nutritional benefits.
Make Your Own Sauce
If you're feeling adventurous, you can always make your own low sugar barbecue sauce at home. This will give you complete control over the ingredients and the amount of sugar that goes into the sauce. There are plenty of recipes available online that use natural sweeteners and low sugar ingredients. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor.
Conclusion
Choosing a low sugar barbecue sauce doesn't have to be difficult. By following these tips, you can find a sauce that is both delicious and healthy. Whether you choose to buy a sauce or make your own, you can enjoy the flavors of summer without worrying about consuming too much sugar.