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And countless alternative andartificial sweetenershave come to the market to try and meet this very demand.
Experts in This Article
Amy Davis, RD, LDN, is a registered dietitian atFRESH Communications.
But what is allulose and what does the research tell us about its health benefits (or concerns)?
Amy Davis, RD, LDN, is a registered dietitian atFRESH Communications.
What is allulose?
Allulose, pronouncedalyoolows,also referred to as D-psicose, is a naturally occurring sugar.
It is a monosaccharide, or the simplest form of sugar.
Interestingly, allulose has the same chemical makeup as fructose but in a different arrangement.
This difference alters how the body metabolizes allulose compared to how it normally would fructose.
Is allulose better than other sweeteners?
But what does the research have to say about the benefits (or downsides) of this emerging alternative?
First off, how allulose is metabolized has major impacts on its blood sugar response.
Davis explains that it has no effect on blood sugar or insulin levels.
Amy Davis, RD, LDN, is a registered dietitian atFRESH Communications.
The remainder leaves the body by way of the large intestine with the same result.
Several animal studies have also found this benefit, including this2021 research articleand this2017 study.
But is allulose safe?
In terms of research that raises red flags, there really isnt muchespecially compared to other sugar swap-outs.
Use of allulose is also approved in Singapore and several other countries, Davis says.
Overall, no adverse effects are currently associated with allulose, unlike some other sweetener substitutes.
However, allulose is still a new sweetener and requires more research, Davis says.
Should you use allulose at home?
Lots of products sweetened with allulose are also hitting the market, fromMagic Spooncereal andCatalina Crunchsnacks toChobaniyogurts andSmartSweetscandies.
As with any sweetener, moderation is key, Davis says.
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