THAT MYTH

People with diabetes should avoid sweeteners because they upset blood glucose levels

False, according to the British Dietetic Association. Regulating blood glucose levels in people with diabetes is important to prevent risk of complications. Since artificial sweeteners are metabolised more slowly, replacing sugar with an artificial sweetener may help stabilise blood glucose levels over a longer period.

The European Food Standards Agency has approved the health claim that sweeteners may help in the regulation of blood sugar after eating.

The British Dietetic Association also points out that intense sweeteners may help with weight loss or weight maintenance in people with Type 2 diabetes and, consequently, result in better diabetes control.

All in all, the evidence to date suggests artificial sweeteners are safe for people with diabetes.