Sugar Alcohols

Sugar alcohols are a type of carbohydrates, also called polyols, which occur naturally in many fruits, vegetables, and grains and are also commercially produced. They are used as a sugar substitute in many processed foods, such as candy and gum, as well as in some dietary supplements. Sugar alcohols contain fewer calories and less sugar than normal sugar, but they still provide the sweet taste of sugar. They are also not metabolized in the same way as sugar, so they do not cause a sharp increase in blood sugar levels. Furthermore, sugar alcohols are considered to be “tooth friendly” carbohydrates since they do not promote the growth of cavity-causing bacteria. These health benefits make sugar alcohols a desirable sweetener for people with diabetes, as well as for others looking to reduce their sugar intake.