It was rationed during the lockdowns and has risen in price along with everything else. And it's in everything, usually in the form of high fructose corn syrup (HFCS). Processed sugar causes many health problems, from chronic inflammation to cardiovascular disease.

Diabetics have to monitor sugar levels carefully, and sugar isn't good for the keto diet crowd either. So why not look for some healthier alternatives? Some of these can even be grown in the garden! 

Stevia (Stevia rebaudiana)

Stevia is one of the alternatives that can be grown in the garden. In fact, I saw some for sale when I visited my local garden center, so I'd think the plant is easily available elsewhere. The leaves are processed to extract the sweetener. Stevia does have both benefits and downsides, so some due diligence can't hurt. While stevia can act as an appetite suppressant, preliminary research has suggested that it's harmful to the gut biome. Stevia is suggested as a sugar alternative for diabetics as well. 

This site shows an alcohol-based extraction process requiring only stevia leaves and vodka. I'm sure other alcohols such as Everclear would work just fine.