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For any diabetic, having sugar-free foods is the only way to give in to a sweet tooth. With less than 0.5 grams per serving, these treats when had in moderation can satisfy the craving for sweets without sending your blood sugar levels shooting up. Sugar causes a spike in natural insulin levels, a great threat for diabetic patients. These artificial sweeteners are a great alternative, allowing you to enjoy the occasional treat without the drawbacks of usual desserts. They don?t cause a sudden rise in blood sugar levels like authentic sweets and are great for your teeth. Also, a few sugar-free candies can control hunger cravings and you can easily savour the nutritional benefits of chocolates without he added sugar in it. Chocolates are great for your heart and also work as antioxidants, and the sugar-free varieties are ideal for diabetic patients. Substitutes like Splenda, Sugar Free, Equal and Stevia are low in sugar and calories and can be used in place of sugar in all dessert recipes. DISADVANTAGES OF SUSAR FREE FOOD There cannot be advantages without disadvantages, and sugar-free foods are no exception. Most sugar-free foods are free of natural sugar, but that doesn?t mean they are free of calories too. Having too many calories can be dangerous for any diabetic, since their body doesn?t produce normal levels of insulin and desserts that are high in fat content are always a threat. The problem greatly arises because most diabetics assume the desserts and candies to be ?sugar-free? and tend to overindulge. And sometimes these sugar-free foods contribute to hundreds of calories consumed by the diabetic patient, which again sends their blood sugar levels soaring. It is essential to understand that anything processed or artificial cannot be good for you if consumed in large amounts. Having halwas made with sugar-free sweeteners or heavy cakes and pastries that claim to be sugar-free are not a good idea. And then there?s always the fear that some artificial sweeteners have carcinogens in them. Reports suggest that aspartame found in Sugar Free and Equal can give you headaches, cause bloat and even result in seizures. Acesulfame-K that is used in most sugar-free foods can cause cancer as well as tumors. Studies are yet to decide whether the cons of sugar-free foods outweigh the pros. Although most artificial sweeteners like aspartame, Stevia and sucralose have been approved by the FDA for daily consumption, it is best to be cautious. As always, moderation is the key to living a happy life with diabetes.
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