Should diabetics eliminate sugar free foods etc from diet?

Question

Can blood sugar levels increase as a result of ingesting sugar free foods. Example sodas, candies and gum. I chew a lot of gum especially at night for the sweet taste. Is this a good or bad habit.

Answer 1

One of the many myths about diabetes is that so-called "sugar-free" foods are better for a diabetic, and that they don't raise glucose levels. In fact, diabetic and “dietetic” versions of sugar-containing foods offer no special benefit. They still raise blood glucose levels, are usually more expensive and can also have a laxative effect if they contain sugar alcohols. It's also a myth that you need to avoid all sugars. If eaten as part of a healthy meal plan, or combined with exercise, sweets and desserts can be eaten by people with diabetes. They are no more “off limits” to people with diabetes, than they are to people without diabetes. So, yes, sugar-free foods CAN increase your glucose (a.k.a. suagr) levels. And, as your metabolism slows when you sleep, your body's ability to metabolize those carbs will also slow, causing increases. You might want to cut down a bit on that stuff at night. Hope this helps!

Answer 2

Sugar Free Gum Should Be Fine Other Than The Calories! Blood Sugars Can Rise With Sugar Free Foods. The Foods Still Have Calories, And Calories Are How You Gain Weight. Whenever You Gain Weight Your Sugar Level Goes Up Fast. I Think You May Want To Call Your Local Hospital And Ask About A Diabetic Education Class. The Class Will Help You Along With Family And Friends Too.

Answer 3

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Answer 4

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Answer 5

Sugar free foods that are sweetened artificially MAY increase your blood sugar. Sugar alcohols are often used instead of actual sugar, and they can increase your sugar if you consume them a lot. They can also cause stomach upset, gas and diarrhea. Also, some foods that claim to be sugar free have carbs instead of sugars, which turn into sugar when they are digested. The best thing to do is read the package. Diet soda and sugar free gum is usually fine. It's the cookies, candy and other sugar free snacks that can be an issue. I generally don't eat a lot of sugar free foods because they upset my stomach. Instead I still occasionally eat normal foods with sugar, but in very limited quantities.

Answer 6

As with all foods, diabetics should be reading the label on the product they are purchasing. Sugar free foods do not raise your blood sugar per se, however it is not always the best choice. What does the product using in place of sugar? Some sugar substitutes such as sugar alcohol have been known to cause diarrhea in some people.

Answer 7

Many artificially sweetened foods are still high in carbohydrates and the carbs are converted to sugar in your body. They can raise your levels a huge amount when you are feeling that you have been eating well cutting out sugar. Be careful about that and try to talk to a dietitian through your Dr's office or the Diabetes Association. Good Luck and God Bless You.

Answer 8

They shouldn't increase sugar levels unless they also contain other forms of carbohydrates. Check the carbohydrate content on the labelling to be sure. Also be wary of specially packaged 'diabetic' foods. These can make you think that you can eat as many of them as you like, but they often contain artificial sweeteners like Sorbitol which has a laxative effect, so they should still only be eaten in moderation. 'Diabetic' foods also tend to be more expensive.

Answer 9

As sugar is the issue, there is no need to eliminate sugar-free foods and gum from your diet.

Answer 10

Sugar free foods are fine.