Sugar Free Chocolate for Diabetics

Sugar Free Chocolate for Diabetics is becoming increasingly popular among people with diabetes who want to enjoy the sweetness of chocolate without worrying about the impact it may have on their blood sugar levels.

In this article, we'll take a closer look at sugar-free chocolates for diabetics, including how they're made, their benefits, and some of the best brands to try. So if you're a chocolate lover with diabetes, read on to discover all you need to know about sugar-free chocolates for diabetics and which brand we ranked as Number 1!

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What do we mean by "Sugar Free chocolate"?

When we say "sugar-free chocolate," we mean chocolate that is made without any added sugar. Instead, manufacturers use sugar substitutes, such as stevia, allulose, erythritol, monk fruit or xylitol, to sweeten the chocolate.

These sugar substitutes are low in calories and for some people they do not raise blood sugar levels like regular sugar does, making them a great option for people with diabetes or those who are trying to limit their sugar intake. It's important to note that sugar-free chocolate may still contain carbohydrates, so it's essential to read the nutrition label and consume it in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

A note about "sugar free" chocolate for diabetics

While sugar-free chocolate is made without added sugar, it's important to note that it can still impact your blood sugar levels as a diabetic. Many sugar-free chocolate options are made with sugar alcohols or other carbohydrate-containing ingredients that can cause spikes in blood sugar levels if consumed in excess.

It's important to monitor your blood sugar levels regularly and eat sugar-free chocolate in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Additionally, be sure to read the nutrition labels on sugar-free chocolate products and choose options that are lower in carbohydrates and calories.

Six sugar free chocolates for diabetics

We're excited to bring you some sugar-free, no sugar added and low sugar chocolate rankings. Our rankings are based on a variety of factors, including taste, texture and ingredients. We've scoured the market and tasted some of the top sugar-free chocolate brands to bring you our definitive list.

*We've also included some low sugar chocolates in this list to give you a variety.

6. Russel Stover Chocolates

Russell Stover chocolates offer a wide range of sugar-free options that are sweetened with a blend of stevia and maltitol. (See more about maltitol below)

Russel Stovers No Sugar Added Dark Chocolates

• Serving Size: 43g
• Calories: 210
• Total Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 0g
• Sugar Alc: 18g
• Protein: 2g

A note about products sweetened with stevia. Just because a product is labeled as "made with stevia" doesn't necessarily mean it's a healthy option for those looking to avoid sugar.

It's important to check the label and see what else it is sweetened with, as well as other ingredients that may affect your health. Some products may contain other sugar alcohols or artificial sweeteners that can also impact blood sugar levels or have other negative effects on the body.

Additionally, some products may contain high amounts of other additives that may not be ideal for a healthy diet. Always read the label carefully and consider all the ingredients before making a decision.

5. ChoxCo Chocolates

ChoxCo is considered a "low sugar" chocolate. They are rich and creamy in texture with a taste that is both smooth and intense. They have a variety of flavors including peanut butter cups and chocolate coconut and made without sweetener substitutions and instead use cane sugar to sweeten their chocolate.

ChoxCo 70% Dark Chocolate Almond Coconut Almond Butter Cups

• Serving Size: 14g
• Calories: 80
• Total Fat: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 3
• Includes: 3g added sugars
• Protein: 2g

A note about cane sugar: When we consume cane sugar, it enters the bloodstream and causes a rapid increase in blood sugar levels. This is because the body quickly breaks down the sucrose into glucose and fructose. The glucose then enters the bloodstream and is transported to cells throughout the body where it is used as fuel.

However, if too much glucose is present in the blood, it can lead to spikes in blood sugar levels, which can be dangerous for people with diabetes or other conditions that affect blood sugar levels.

4. Hu Chocolates

Hu Chocolates isa brand of chocolate that is specifically marketed as "healthy" and "better for you." Hu Chocolate is made with simple, whole-food ingredients and does not contain refined sugars, soy lecithin, dairy, or gluten. Instead, Hu Chocolate is sweetened with organic coconut sugar, which is a lower-glycemic alternative to regular sugar.

Hu Simple Dark Chocolate

• Serving Size: 30g (½ bar)
• Calories: 190
• Fat: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 7g
• Includes: 7g added sugars
• Protein: 3g

3. Lily's Chocolates

Lilys Chocolates offers a wide range of flavors, including milk chocolate, dark chocolate, and white chocolate. They are sweetened with stevia, which is a natural sweetener that has zero calories. They have a rich, chocolatey taste with a slightly different flavor profile due to the use of stevia and erythritol as sweeteners instead of sugar.

Lily's Dark Chocolate Bar 70% Sea Salt

• Serving Size: 40g
• Calories: 190
• Fat: 16g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 10g
• Sugar: <1g
• Sugar Alc: 6g
• Protein: 4g

In January 2021, it was announced that Lily's Chocolate had been acquired by The Hershey Company. While Hershey's acquisition of Lily's has caused some concern among fans of the brand, it's important to note that Hershey's has a history of acquiring and partnering with smaller brands while allowing them to maintain their unique identities and recipes.

It's important to note that the acquisition of Lily's Chocolate by Hershey's is still relatively recent, and it may take some time before any changes to the products become apparent. In the meantime, fans of Lily's Chocolate can continue to enjoy their products and monitor any changes to the recipe or quality.

2. Choc Zero Chocolates

Choc Zero uses monk fruit extract to sweeten its chocolate. The chocolate itself is rich and velvety, with a smooth texture that melts in your mouth. The monk fruit extract also adds a unique flavor to the chocolate that sets it apart from other low-sugar or keto-friendly chocolate brands.

Choc Zero 70% Dark Chocolate Squares

• Serving Size: 10g (1 square)
• Calories: 45
• Fat: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 0g
• Includes: 0g added sugars
• Protein: 0g

1. Coco Polo Chocolates

Coco Polo Chocolates uses only the finest ingredients and natural sweeteners like stevia to create a smooth and delicious chocolate that is free from added sugars.

Their commitment to quality, taste, and nutritional value makes it the clear winner in our ranking of the best sugar-free chocolates.

Coco Polo 70% Dark Chocolate:

• Serving Size: 30g (½ bar)
• Calories: 130
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 7g
• Sugar: 0g
• Sugar Alc: 4g
• Protein: 2g

One of the reasons why Coco Polo is the best no sugar added chocolate is its chocolate is made from ethically sourced cocoa beans and is free from any artificial flavors or preservatives. This means you can indulge in their chocolate bars and without any guilt or worry about the impact on your health.

But perhaps the best thing about Coco Polo Chocolates is the taste! Their chocolate is smooth, creamy, and bursting with flavor. They offer a range of flavors, from classic milk chocolate to more adventurous options like raspberry hibiscus and cherry.

So whether you're a chocolate lover looking for a sweet treat or someone with dietary restrictions, Coco Polo has something for everyone. Try them for yourself and see why so many people are raving about this amazing brand! In the US you can order them online at cocopolo.com or in Canada at switchgrocery.com.

How is sugar free chocolate made?

Sugar-free chocolate is made using sugar substitutes such as artificial sweeteners, natural sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit, or a combination of both. The process of making sugar-free chocolate is similar to that of regular chocolate, with some modifications to account for the absence of sugar.

Here are the general steps for making sugar-free chocolate:

1. Roasting and grinding cocoa beans: Cocoa beans are roasted to bring out their flavor, and then ground into a paste called cocoa liquor.
2. Mixing cocoa liquor with other ingredients: Cocoa liquor is mixed with cocoa butter (the fat from the cocoa bean), sugar substitutes, and other flavorings such as vanilla.
3. Refining the mixture: The chocolate mixture is refined to create a smooth texture. This involves passing the mixture through a series of rollers to break down any remaining particles.
4. Conching: The chocolate mixture is continuously stirred and heated to develop its flavor and texture. This step can take anywhere from a few hours to several days.
5. Tempering: The chocolate is cooled and heated to specific temperatures to create a shiny, smooth finish and a crisp snap.
6. Molding: The tempered chocolate is poured into molds and allowed to cool and solidify.

Benefits of consuming sugar-free chocolates

Eating sugar-free chocolate may have several benefits, depending on the individual's dietary needs and health goals. Here are some potential benefits of consuming sugar-free chocolate:

1. Lower sugar intake: Sugar-free chocolate contains little to no added sugar, which can help people who are trying to reduce their sugar intake or manage conditions such as diabetes.
2. Lower calorie intake: Because sugar-free chocolate has less sugar, it may also have fewer calories than regular chocolate. This can be helpful for people trying to manage their weight.
3. Antioxidants: Like regular chocolate, sugar-free chocolate made with high cocoa content can contain antioxidants called flavanols. Flavanols have been linked to a variety of potential health benefits, including improved heart health and cognitive function.
4. Reduced risk of cavities: Sugar-free chocolate may be less likely to contribute to tooth decay compared to regular chocolate, which can contain high amounts of sugar.
5. Enjoyment of chocolate: For people who enjoy the taste of chocolate but want to limit their sugar intake, sugar-free chocolate can be a satisfying treat.

It's important to note that while sugar-free chocolate can be a healthier option for some people, it's still a treat and should be consumed in moderation.

Additionally, some types of sugar substitutes used in sugar-free chocolate may have side effects or interact with certain medications, so it's always a good idea to speak with a healthcare provider before making any significant dietary changes.

Things to keep in mind when shopping for sugar free or no sugar added chocolates

Here are some things to keep in mind when evaluating chocolate products marketed as keto-friendly, low-carb, or sugar-free:

1. Check the ingredients: Just because a product is marketed as keto-friendly or low-carb does not mean it is healthy. Many of these products may be high in unhealthy fats, additives, or artificial sweeteners. Make sure to check the ingredients list and avoid products with ingredients you don't recognize or are known to be unhealthy.
2. Look at the nutrition information: Chocolate products marketed as low-carb or sugar-free may still contain significant amounts of carbs or sugar alcohols, which can still impact blood sugar levels. Make sure to check the nutrition information and serving size before consuming these products.
3. Consider portion sizes: Just because a chocolate product is marketed as low-carb or keto-friendly does not mean it's okay to consume large amounts. Many of these products may still be high in calories, so it's important to pay attention to portion sizes and consume them in moderation.
4. Focus on whole foods: Enjoying sugar-free chocolate on occasion as a diabetic can be a nice treat. Try incorporating whole foods into your diet that are naturally low in carbs and sugar, such as nuts, seeds, and low-sugar fruits like berries. These foods can provide a healthier source of nutrients and satisfy your sweet tooth without relying on processed products.

A word about maltitol

Oh boy, where do I start with maltitol? This sneaky little sweetener might seem innocent enough, but let me tell you, it can wreak havoc on your body in all sorts of ways.

First off, let's talk about the digestive issues. Maltitol is notorious for causing some pretty serious gastrointestinal distress, including bloating, gas, and diarrhea. So if you're planning on indulging in some sugar-free chocolates made with maltitol, you might want to make sure you're close to a bathroom.

But wait, there's more! Maltitol can also lead to some unpleasant skin reactions. If you have sensitive skin, consuming maltitol can cause redness, itching, and even hives. So, if you're hoping to maintain that smooth, blemish-free complexion, you might want to steer clear of the maltitol-laced snacks.

And let's not forget about the potential impact on your blood sugar levels. Despite being a sugar substitute, maltitol can actually cause your blood sugar to spike, which is especially dangerous for people with diabetes.

But hey, at least maltitol doesn't have any calories, right? Wrong. While it may have fewer calories than regular sugar, it can still contribute to weight gain if consumed in excess.

So, the next time you're eyeing that sugar-free candy or baked good, just remember the potential side effects of maltitol. And if you still can't resist, well, I hope you have a good bathroom nearby.

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What to avoid when choosing a sugar free chocolate?

When choosing a sugar-free chocolate, there are some things to avoid to ensure you are making a healthy and satisfying choice.

First and foremost, avoid any chocolates that contain added sugars or sugar substitutes, such as high fructose corn syrup, maltodextrin, or aspartame. These ingredients can negatively impact blood sugar levels and may also be associated with other health risks.

Additionally, avoid chocolates that contain unhealthy ingredients, such as hydrogenated oils, artificial flavors or colors, and preservatives.

Lastly, be cautious of chocolates that are labeled as "low-fat" or "diet" as they may contain hidden sugars or artificial sweeteners to make up for the lack of fat. Always read the ingredient label and nutritional information to make an informed decision.

How does sugar free chocolate affect blood sugars?

Sugar-free chocolates are made with sugar substitutes, such as sugar alcohols, artificial sweeteners, or natural sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit extract.

These substitutes are lower in carbohydrates and calories than regular sugar, so they have less of an impact on blood sugar levels. However, it's important to note that sugar-free chocolates can still affect blood sugar levels, especially if consumed in large amounts.

Sugar alcohols, such as erythritol or xylitol, are commonly used in sugar-free chocolates. They are absorbed more slowly than regular sugar and do not cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels. However, they can still cause a slight increase in blood sugar levels, especially in larger amounts.

Artificial sweeteners like aspartame, sucralose, and saccharin do not contain any carbohydrates or calories and are marketed to not affect blood sugar levels. However, some people have noted that it may affect their blood sugars and they also experience digestive issues or other side effects from consuming artificial sweeteners.

Overall, sugar-free chocolate can be a good option for people with diabetes who want to satisfy their sweet tooth without causing a significant increase in blood sugar levels. However, it's important to consume sugar-free chocolates in moderation and to be aware of the potential impact on blood sugar levels.

As always, monitor your blood sugar levels to see how different chocolates and sweeteners affect you personally.

Eating chocolate as part of a diabetic diet

Eating chocolate as part of a diabetic diet can be a tricky subject, as chocolate is often associated with high sugar content. However, sugar-free chocolate is a viable option for those with diabetes who still want to indulge in a sweet treat.

When consuming chocolate, it's important to pay attention to portion sizes and be mindful of the total carbohydrates and calories in each serving. It's also important to remember that sugar-free does not mean calorie-free, and overconsumption can still lead to weight gain and elevated blood sugar levels.

In general, it's recommended to choose dark chocolate with a high percentage of cocoa solids as it contains less sugar than milk chocolate and has been shown to have potential health benefits such as improving insulin sensitivity and reducing inflammation.

As with any food, moderation is key, and it's always best to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized recommendations.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Final thoughts on sugar free chocolate for diabetics

In conclusion, sugar free chocolate can be a great treat option for diabetics looking to satisfy their sweet tooth. However, it's important to choose wisely and pay attention to the ingredients and nutritional value.

Look for chocolates made with natural sweeteners, such as stevia, monk fruit or erythritol and avoid those with artificial sweeteners.

When indulging in sugar free chocolate, it's still important to eat in moderation and monitor blood sugar levels.

Additionally, dark chocolate tends to be a better option for diabetics due to its lower sugar content and potential health benefits. With the right choices, sugar free chocolate can be a delicious addition to a balanced diabetic diet.

As always, It is important for people with diabetes to monitor their blood sugar levels regularly and consume sugar free chocolate in moderation as part of a balanced diet. It is also recommended to consult a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian before incorporating sugar free chocolate into a diabetic meal plan.