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

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

Nutrition & Dietetics Specialist

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.

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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.

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

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