Artificial sweeteners and diabetes: Are they safe for glucose control?

Artificial sweeteners can be a safe alternative to sugar for people with diabetes , according to Mayo Clinic specialist M. Regina Castro, M.D.

These compounds, also known as sugar substitutes, low-calorie sweeteners, or non-nutritive sweeteners, allow you to enjoy the sweet taste without increasing your calorie intake or directly altering blood glucose levels.

These compounds are considerably sweeter than sugar, so they are used in small quantities , which can contribute to a calorie reduction in foods and beverages.

Unlike non-nutritive sweeteners, sugar alcohols—such as mannitol, sorbitol, and xylitol—can raise blood glucose.

They are found naturally in some fruits and vegetables and are also artificially incorporated into food products.

Although they provide about half the calories of sugar, their consumption can cause gastrointestinal side effects, such as diarrhea, in some people.

Although sweeteners are generally safe for people with diabetes, some studies suggest that frequent use may not provide the expected benefits, especially for people who consume large amounts of these products.

The scientific community continues to investigate its long-term effects on metabolic health.

This content was rewritten with the assistance of artificial intelligence, based on information from the Mayo Clinic.