Sweeteners

by zh
(Kansas)

Visitor Question:

What about Xylitol or Stevia products? What is the glycemic index on these?

Lifetime Fat Loss Answers:

Xylitol has a glycemic index of 7 which is quite low since below 55 is considered low glycemic. It's one of the sugar alcohols which are commonly used as low glycemic sweeteners. It's non-toxic to humans and very low in calories. Xylitol has other health benefits. It's added to some toothpastes as it supports the remineralization of enamel which reduces dental cavities.

Stevia, as far as I know, has a zero glycemic index; it's definitely low glycemic. Also called sweet leaf it is in the sunflower family. The extract from the plant is 300 times sweeter than sugar so you need just a tiny amount to sweeten a beverage or food. Stevia is good for your digestion and it may even increase insulin sensitivity.

For a complete list of low glycemic sweeteners and a discussion of their attributes go to my page called sugar free desserts. My personal favorite is coconut palm sugar because the texture is so similar to cane sugar it's a great substitute for baking!