### Sugar Substitutes for Type 2 Diabetes Managing a sweet tooth can be challenging, especially for people with type 2 diabetes who need to control their carbohydrate intake. Sugar substitutes can help by providing sweetness without the high blood sugar spikes. Here are some common options: 1. **Splenda (Sucralose)**: 600 times sweeter than sugar, no impact on blood sugar, minimal absorption by the body. FDA recommends up to 5 mg per kg of body weight per day. 2. **Sweet’N Low (Saccharin)**: 300-500 times sweeter than sugar, calorie-free. Previously linked to cancer in animal studies, but now considered safe. FDA recommends up to 15 mg per kg of body weight per day. 3. **Equal (Aspartame)**: 200 times sweeter than sugar, low in calories. Safe for most people, but those with phenylketonuria (PKU) should avoid it. FDA recommends up to 50 mg per kg of body weight per day. 4. **Truvia (Stevia)**: Derived from the stevia plant, calorie-free, minimal impact on blood sugar. FDA recommends up to 4 mg per kg of body weight per day. 5. **Sugar Alcohols (e.g., Sorbitol, Mannitol)**: Found in fruits and vegetables, low in calories, can cause digestive issues like bloating and diarrhea. They contain some carbohydrates and can affect blood sugar levels. 6. **Erythritol**: A sugar alcohol with less than 1 calorie per gram, minimal impact on blood sugar, less likely to cause digestive issues. No specific FDA recommended intake. 7. **Monk Fruit Sweetener**: 150-200 times sweeter than sugar, calorie-free, derived from a plant native to southern China. Generally recognized as safe by the FDA. 8. **Acesulfame Potassium (Ace-K)**: 200 times sweeter than sugar, often combined with other sweeteners. Some studies suggest potential health issues, but generally considered safe. FDA recommends up to 15 mg per kg of body weight per day. 9. **Allulose**: Very low-calorie, 70% as sweet as sugar, minimal impact on blood sugar. Not yet FDA-approved but generally recognized as safe. While these substitutes can help manage blood sugar levels, it's important to use them in moderation and focus on reducing overall sweetener intake. Drinking more water and getting used to the natural sweetness of foods can also be beneficial.