Equal (aspartame): The blue packet is 200 times sweeter than sugar, and only has four calories per packet. Aspartame contains amino acids, two of which are phenylalanine and aspartate, both of which are not carbohydrates. So for people who have diabetes, aspartame is preferable because it does not raise blood sugar levels and does not compromise the sweetness of the food. However, when it is heated, aspartame will often lose its taste, so it is not fitting as a baking substitute. The Food and Drug Administration has declared aspartame a safe alternative to sugar, but WebMD states that people who suffer from chronic migraines might see their headaches furthered when eating foods containing aspartame. Keep in mind that because these alternatives are low in calories, you might find yourself hungrier as the day goes on.