From the Guidelines
Sugar alcohols do not significantly increase blood sugar in diabetics, and their use as sweetening agents appears to be safe. According to a study published in Diabetes Care in 2002 1, there is evidence that sugar alcohols may cause diarrhea, especially in children, but no significant increase in blood sugar levels was reported. The study states that "The use of sugar alcohols as sweetening agents appears to be safe" 1. Key points to consider include:
- Sugar alcohols are only partially absorbed in the small intestine, resulting in a smaller and slower rise in blood glucose compared to regular sugar
- Most sugar alcohols have a glycemic index between 0 and 35, significantly lower than table sugar's 65
- Individual responses can vary, and some sugar alcohols like maltitol can raise blood sugar more than others
- Diabetics should monitor their blood glucose when consuming products containing sugar alcohols, especially in larger amounts
- Excessive consumption of some sugar alcohols can cause digestive issues like bloating, gas, and diarrhea, as noted in the study 1.
From the Research
Effect of Sugar Alcohol on Blood Sugar in Diabetics
- The study 2 suggests that sugar alcohols, also known as polyols, do not raise plasma glucose levels as they are partially digested and metabolized, making them a suitable sugar substitute for diabetic patients.
- The use of foods sweetened with sugar alcohols such as xylitol, sorbitol, mannitol, maltitol, lactitol, isomalt, and erythritol has been shown to have beneficial effects on the management of hyperglycemia 2.
- However, the study 2 also warns about the possible side effects associated with the normal or higher dosages of sugar alcohols and recommends their use according to the relevant Food & Drug Administration guidelines.
Glycemic Control and Sugar Alcohol
- There is no direct evidence in the provided studies 3, 4, 5, 6 that discusses the effect of sugar alcohol on blood sugar levels in diabetics.
- These studies focus on the use of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) in managing diabetes, comparing different treatment regimens, and evaluating the effects of CGM on glycemic control.
- The study 6 provides a comprehensive overview of the effect of CGM on glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes, but it does not address the specific question of sugar alcohol's impact on blood sugar levels.
Conclusion Not Applicable
As per the given instructions, a conclusion section is not to be included in the response. The information provided is based on the available evidence and is presented in a factual manner without drawing any conclusions.