The Scoop on Hershey's Sugar-Free Candy
For people with diabetes, watching sugar intake is a crucial part of managing the condition. Consuming too many sweets can cause blood sugar to spike to unsafe levels. That's why many people with diabetes turn to sugar-free candy options like those made by Hershey's. But are these candies really a smart choice for people with diabetes? Let's take a closer look.
The Pros of Hershey's Sugar-Free Candy
At first glance, Hershey's sugar-free chocolates and candies seem like an ideal option for people with diabetes. Here are some of the benefits they offer:
- They are low in sugar and carbs - Hershey's claims their sugar-free candies contain 0g of sugar. This means they will not directly raise blood sugar levels.
- They satisfy sweet cravings - The candies provide sweetness without spiking blood sugar. This makes them safer for diabetics with a sweet tooth.
- They offer variety - Hershey's makes sugar-free versions of popular candies like Jolly Ranchers, Reese's Pieces, and Twizzlers. This allows for more choice.
- They are widely available - Being a major brand, Hershey's sugar-free candies are easy to find in most grocery stores and convenience shops.
For people accustomed to enjoying candy, Hershey's line of sugar-free treats opens up a way to still indulge those cravings safely. The ability to pop a few pieces of sugar-free chocolate or candy can make sticking to a diabetic diet much more sustainable long-term.
What Sweeteners Are Used?
So if Hershey's sugar-free candies contain 0 grams of sugar, what sweetens them? Most products in the sugar-free line contain one or both of these sugar substitutes:
- Maltitol - A sugar alcohol that provides sweetness similar to sugar. It has about half the calories and carbs of sugar and has a lower glycemic impact.
- Sucralose - An artificial sweetener also known as Splenda. It provides intense sweetness but has no calories or carbs.
Research shows that neither maltitol nor sucralose spikes blood sugar or insulin levels to the extent real sugar does. Both are considered safe for people with diabetes when consumed in moderation.
The Cons of Sugar-Free Candy for Diabetics
While Hershey's sugar-free candies first appear to be a good option for people with diabetes, there are some potential downsides to be aware of:
- Blood sugar impact - Though lower than real sugar, sugar alcohols like maltitol can still raise blood glucose levels in certain individuals.
- GI issues - Sugar alcohols are known to cause digestive upset like gas, bloating, and diarrhea when eaten in excess.
- Acclimation to sweets - Eating sweets, even sugar-free versions, may perpetuate cravings for sugary foods.
- Nutritional value - Candy is candy, whether it's sugar-free or not. It offers little to no nutritional benefit.
- Effects on teeth - Sugar-free candies are still high in acids that can erode tooth enamel over time.
These drawbacks must be weighed against the benefits when deciding if sugar-free candy should be part of a diabetes diet. Moderation and individual tolerances play a key role.
Tips for Enjoying Hershey's Sugar-Free Candy With Diabetes
If you decide to include Hershey's sugar-free candies as an occasional treat, here are some tips to keep blood sugar safe:
- Read nutrition labels - Be sure to check the carb counts, which vary by product.
- Portion control - Stick to single serving sizes and avoid binge eating.
- Account for carbs - Factor the carbs from sugar-free candy into your meal plan.
- Test after eating - Check blood sugar levels 1-2 hours after eating to see individual impacts.
- Brush after eating - Protect your teeth by brushing soon after you indulge.
- Moderate frequency - Enjoy sugar-free candy as a special treat, not a daily habit.
The Best Hershey's Sugar-Free Candies for Diabetes
If you do want to work some Hershey's sugar-free candy into your diabetes diet, these options have the lowest carb counts per typical single serving:
- Jolly Rancher Hard Candy - 8g carbs
- Hershey's Milk Chocolate Bar - 9g net carbs
- Hershey's Special Dark Chocolate Bar - 12g net carbs
- York Peppermint Pattie - 13g net carbs
- Reese's Sugar-Free Peanut Butter Cups - 14g net carbs
- Twizzlers Nibs - 15g net carbs
For comparison, regular Hershey's chocolate bars have around 24g net carbs per serving. So the sugar-free options provide a significant reduction in carbs and sugar.
Healthier Candy Options for Diabetes
Beyond Hershey's line, there are other smart candy options for people with diabetes. Here are some with nutrition profiles even better suited to a diabetic diet:
- Sugar-free chocolate - Look for brands sweetened with stevia instead of maltitol.
- Dark chocolate - The higher the cocoa content, the lower the carbs and sugar.
- Unsweetened dried fruit - Try dates, apricots, cranberries, and raisins. No added sugar!
- Chocolate-dipped nuts - Nuts have nutrition and chocolate provides sweetness.
- Yogurt-covered snacks - Choose yogurt-coated nuts, raisins, pretzels, or crackers.
The Final Take
People with diabetes don't have to avoid sweets entirely. Hershey's line of sugar-free chocolates and candies can be a safe way to satisfy a sweet tooth as long as portions are controlled and carbs accounted for. While not as nutritious as whole foods, these products are preferable to candy with added sugar. Enjoying them occasionally as part of an overall balanced diabetic diet can be an acceptable option for many people.
The key is moderation. Make sure sugar-free candy remains just a small indulgence and not a daily habit. Pay attention to how your individual body responds to different sugar-free sweeteners. And stick to making the majority of your diet diabetes-friendly whole foods that provide true nourishment. With a thoughtful approach, products like Hershey's sugar-free candies can be part of maintaining blood sugar while still allowing you to satisfy sweet cravings.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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