Sugar-free

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Sugar-free

Sugar-free (/ˈʃʊɡər friː/) refers to the absence of sugar in a food or drink product. The term is often used in the context of dietary restrictions and healthy eating.

Etymology

The term "sugar-free" is a compound word formed from the English words "sugar" and "free". It is used to denote the absence of sugar in a product.

Definition

Sugar-free products are those that do not contain any form of sugar. This includes both natural sugars, such as those found in fruit (fructose), and added sugars, such as sucrose or high fructose corn syrup. Sugar-free products often contain artificial sweeteners or sugar substitutes, such as aspartame, sucralose, or stevia, to provide sweetness without the calories or blood sugar impact of sugar.

Related Terms

  • Artificial sweetener: A sugar substitute that provides sweetness without the calories or blood sugar impact of sugar.
  • Dietary restriction: A limitation on the consumption of certain foods or nutrients, often for health reasons.
  • Healthy eating: A dietary approach that emphasizes the consumption of nutrient-dense foods and limits the intake of added sugars, saturated fats, and sodium.
  • Sugar substitute: A food additive that provides a sweet taste like that of sugar while containing significantly less food energy.

Health Implications

Sugar-free products are often recommended for individuals with diabetes, as they do not cause a spike in blood sugar levels. They can also be beneficial for weight management, as they are typically lower in calories than their sugar-containing counterparts. However, some research suggests that the consumption of artificial sweeteners may be associated with negative health effects, including an increased risk of metabolic syndrome and obesity.

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