Sugar alternatives are substances used to sweeten food and drinks without the calories of traditional sugar. They can be natural, like stevia and honey, or artificial, such as aspartame and sucralose. These alternatives are popular among people looking to reduce sugar intake for health reasons, including weight management and diabetes control. Many sugar alternatives are much sweeter than regular sugar, so only small amounts are needed. Some may have a different taste or aftertaste compared to sugar, which can affect how they are used in cooking and baking. It's important to read labels, as some products may contain additional ingredients.