Diabetes is a health condition that affects how the body uses blood glucose, or blood sugar. The Mayo Clinic notes that glucose provides essential energy to the body and brain to enable normal body functions and mental tasks. However, excess glucose in the blood, which occurs with diabetes, can pose serious health risks if it is not controlled. These include kidney damage, cardiovascular disease, neuropathy and eye damage. Diabetics may still enjoy dessert as part of a healthy diet and exercise plan. Always consult with a health professional to determine your individual needs.
Moderation
According to HelpGuide.org, diabetics do not need to avoid sugar entirely. Rather, foods containing sugar can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a well-balanced diet plan. The American Diabetes Association reveals that sugar intake is not associated with type 1 diabetes, and type 2 diabetes is most commonly associated with weight gain and eating too much in general. Since many sweets are high in carbohydrates, diabetics may need to cut back on carbs during other meals if planning to partake in dessert that day.
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates are divided into simple and complex carbs. Simple carbohydrates are refined foods that are stripped of their nutrients during the milling process. Foods, including white breads, cakes, cookies and packaged granola bars have less nutrients and are higher in sugars. In contrast, complex carbohydrates retain the germ and bran during milling, increasing their nutrient and fiber content. Complex carbs consist of most whole-grains, fruits and vegetables. Diabetics should reduce simple carb intake and add more whole grains to their diet to help stabilize blood sugar levels and prevent hunger cravings. Avoid substituting desserts for healthy carbs on a regular basis, as the healthy carbs are a source of essential nutrients and vitamins.
Alternative Sweeteners
Diabetics may be able to incorporate lighter desserts into a diet by preparing or purchasing those that are made with alternative sweeteners. Nutritive sweeteners are increasingly marketed to people looking to monitor carb intake, lose weight or avoid sugar. According to Diabetes New Zealand, sugar alcohols such as xylitol, manitol and sorbitol are typically used to sweeten baked goods, jellies and confectionery. These sugar substitutes are increasingly used in sugar-free candies and other products such as ice creams and cookies. In many cases, xylitol may be used as a sugar substitute in baking recipes. Although these sweeteners are approved by the World Health Organization, or WHO, users should be aware of possible side-effects including diarrhea, bloating and flatulence with excessive consumption.
Fruit
Fruit is a natural source of sugar that provides a healthier dessert alternative for diabetics. Relying on natural sources of sugar found in fruit to prepare light desserts provides additional vitamins, minerals and antioxidants versus alternative sweeteners. However, many fruits are still high sources of sugar and intake should be accounted for as part of a daily total carb count. Prepare a light diabetic candied dessert by serving grilled peaches over low-fat yogurt mixed with granola. Dried fruits such as raisins and cranberries add a candied textured to sprinkle on top of a dish.
