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Step 1
Consider what you're sweetening. If you're baking, stevia and Splenda tend to be the best options. Splenda mixed with pure cane sugar can deduct calories while still producing a bake sale perfect dessert. For adding a sweet touch to coffee or tea, you might prefer the taste of Nutrasweet, Equal or Sweet 'n Low.
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Step 2
Be aware of the health risks of some artificial sweeteners. There is much debate whether stevia, which has not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration for use as a sweetener, is the "safest" choice compared to other artificial sweeteners. Saccharin, used in Sweet 'n Low, and aspartame, used in diet sodas, Equal and Nutrasweet, have both been linked to cancer in rats in extremely high doses--though the validity of these studies has been questioned.
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Step 3
Factor in whether you are prone to digestive issues, like diarrhea. If so, you might use a sweetener other than sorbitol or sugar alcohol. These are used in "no sugar added" ice cream varieties, gum and candy.
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Step 4
Stick with Splenda--and use it in moderation--if you're concerned about the health risks of artificial sweeteners. Splenda, made from sucralose, has passed all safety tests, which can't be said of other artificial sweeteners.
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Step 5
Use unsweetened applesauce or fruit juice as a natural alternative to sugar.
