Advertisement
question

Should I eat sugar-free foods if I have diabetes?

Joan Salge Blake, MS, RD
Joan Salge Blake, MS, RD on behalf of Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics
Nutrition & Dietetics Specialist
answer

All no calorie sugar substitutes—saccharin, aspartame, sucralose, ascesulfame K—can be used by those with diabetes.

Good news: the newest addition to the world of sugar substitutes is stevia, which contains an extract from the plant Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni. Stevia does not affect blood glucose levels so can be used by those with diabetes.

Continue Learning about Diabetes

How to develop your diabetes action plan
How to develop your diabetes action plan
Managing diabetes requires care, commitment, and planning. With your diagnosis, it’s helpful to create an action plan that is specific to you. To dev...
Read More
7 routine tests to get after a diabetes diagnosis
7 routine tests to get after a diabetes diagnosis
When you're first diagnosed with diabetes, your healthcare provider (HCP) will check several tests to make sure that your medications and lifestyle ch...
Read More
What should people with diabetes consider when selecting cold or pain medications?
Pain medications for people with diabetes are usually safe in small doses. Ibuprofen is not safe for...
More Answers
How soon after I wake up should I check my blood sugar?
Work with your doctor to come up with a schedule for testing your blood sugar. Learn more from our e...
More Answers

Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.