6 sugar alternatives for people with Type 2 diabetes

Although diabetes is a disease associated with high blood levels, eating sugar is not the only thing that increases your risk.

From your diet to exercise routine, many factors impact your risk of developing diabetes.

Why diabetics should limit sugar-intake
With Type 2 diabetes, people become insulin resistant, which reduces the ability of the cells to absorb and use blood sugar for energy. Eating excess sugar can further lead to spike in blood sugar levels, which could be quite dangerous for people with diabetes.

Health substitutes for sugar
Here are some of the healthy sugar substitutes for people with Type 2 diabetes.

1. Stevia
Stevia is a widely known nonnutritive sweetener or sugar substitute, native to Central and South America, which is said to be safe, as per the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

2. Sucralose
Sucralose or splenda is a beneficial sugar substitute for people suffering from type 2 diabetes. Experts believe sucralose is much sweeter than sugar but has no impact on blood sugar levels.

3. Tagatose
Tagatose is a popular artificial sweetener that researchers believe can lower blood sugar and insulin response.

4. Monk fruit extract
Also known as Luo Han Guo fruit, monk fruit contains natural sugars, mainly fructose and glucose.

5. Coconut palm sugar
Coconut palm sugar is a natural sugar made from coconut palm sap, which is said to be a healthy alternative for refined sugars.

6. Date sugar
Another excellent sugar alternative is date sugar, extracted from whole dates. When eaten in moderation, it is said to be safe for consumption for people with diabetes.