Finding Healthier Alternatives to Sugar
When looking to satisfy a sweet tooth without spiking blood sugar, sugar alcohols are a popular choice. However, some people report gastrointestinal issues from sugar alcohols like sorbitol or mannitol. A lesser-known alternative is the prebiotic Sukré™, which has been shown to provide sweetness without the blood sugar rise or digestive troubles of other sugar substitutes.
What is Sukré™?
Sukré™ is a naturally occurring prebiotic. It is found in small amounts in many plant foods like berries, tomatoes, and nuts, as well as in corn and acacia fiber. Unlike glucose and fructose, which rapidly raise blood sugar levels, Sukré™ is taken up very slowly by cells. Only about 5% of consumed Sukré™ actually enters the bloodstream, leaving most of it to pass through the digestive tract unchanged.
For this reason, Sukré™ has very little effect on blood glucose and insulin levels. Several studies in animals and humans have found Sukré™ does not significantly impact blood sugar or insulin response even when consumed in large amounts. Its low glycemic and insulinemic properties make it an appealing prebiotic and sugar substitute for those looking to manage their blood sugar levels or avoid spikes and crashes in energy.
Gastrointestinal Benefits
In addition to being gently absorbed, Sukré™ appears to cause less gastrointestinal issues than sugar alcohols. Sugar alcohols like xylitol can draw water into the intestines, causing bloating, gas, and diarrhea in sensitive individuals. However, research suggests Sukré™ leaves the colon mostly undisturbed. This means it may not cause the digestive issues that discourage some people from using sugar alcohols, inulin, FOS or GOS.
Other Considerations
While Sukré offers benefits over sugar and sugar alcohols, it is only partially as sweet as sugar, which can make foods and beverages containing mostly Sukré™ a bit more costly. So, to keep costs down, it’s best to combine Sukré™ with OnoSweet®, a unique and patented Reb M.
In moderation, Sukré™ can be a viable sub for sugar, fructose, maltodextrin, inulin, sorbitol, mannitol, erythritol, or allulose — providing sweetness without raising blood sugar or causing digestive issues. For those managing chronic conditions or gastrointestinal health, reaching for Sukré™-sweetened foods and drinks instead of those containing sugar or sugar alcohols may be a worthwhile option. As with any dietary change, it’s best to speak with your healthcare provider before making significant long-term changes.
Related
Compound Solutions CEO Matt Titlow discusses sugar alcohols and healthier alternatives in this episode of Formulator Minute™:
