Ask the Diabetes Educator Archive

Q:
Why should people with diabetes use sugar substitutes?

A:
Certainly, there is no "requirement" to use sugar substitutes. However, if you are one with a "sweet tooth", it is better for you to do so. Why? Because a teaspoon of sugar is a concentrated form of a simple carbohydrate; 3 teaspoons of sugar is equivalent in grams of carbohydrates to 1 slice of bread or 1 small fruit. You can make a lunch that will stay with you from 2 slices of bread as a sandwich and veggies, but 6 teaspoons of sugar in after plus veggies will not have the same staying power. So, to satisfy those cravings that go beyond a piece of fruit, using a substitute in either home or commercially prepared foods will give you more flexibility in increasing your daily intake.