We got a question on if using artificial sweeteners is fine for people leaving with diabetes. We though it best to respond via a post so that we can all learn.
With a low to no calorie sugar count, artificial sweeteners may seem like a treat for people with diabetes. But recent research indicates that artificial sweeteners may actually be counterintuitive, especially if you’re looking to manage or prevent diabetes.
In fact, the increased consumption of these sugar substitutes may correlate to the increase of obesity and diabetes cases.
The good news is that there are sugar alternatives you can choose from, including:
stevia or stevia products such as Truvia
tagatose
monk fruit extract
coconut palm sugar
date sugar
sugar alcohols, such as erythritol or xylitol
You’ll still want to watch your intake for glucose management, but these options are far better than the products marketed as “sugar-free.”
Why are artificial sweeteners bad for people with diabetes?
Some artificial sweeteners say “sugar-free” or “diabetic-friendly,” but research suggests these sugars actually have the opposite effect.
Your body responds to artificial sweeteners differently than it does regular sugar. Artificial sugar can interfere with your body’s learned taste. This can confuse your brain, which will send signals telling you to eat more, especially more sweet foods.
Artificial sweeteners can still raise your glucose levels
One 2016 study saw normal-weight individuals who ate more artificial sweeteners were more likely to have diabetes than people who were overweight or obese.
Have any questions? Drop as a comment to this post and one of our experts will reach out to you.
At Comfort Nutrition Services, we are committed to counseling and assisting our clients, fans and followers to reach their healthy nutritional goals.