Wednesday, June 16, 2010

Question of the week: Candies and Diabetes


The following question was posed by a reader, "I have type 2 diabetes. I'm kind of addicted to jawbreaker candy (especially fireballs). How harmful is it to eat these candies and what alternatives should I try... Is fruit a good alternative?"

Fruit is definitely a good alternative - in addition to the vitamins, minerals, and fiber it contains (as compared to candy), you will be allotted a larger serving for the same amount of calories and carbohydrate grams.

If you really have a craving for candy, look for sugar-free varieties. A piece of sugar-free gum, or sugar-free puddings or gelatins may also satisfy your sweet tooth. Sugar alcohols (which are sometimes found in sugar-free candies) may cause gastro-intestinal distress if consumed in large quantities so be aware.

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