Does a patient with diabetes need to eat only sugar-free foods?

In the past, patients with diabetes were encouraged to consume sugar-free foods, such as sugar-free gelatin and sugar-free ice cream. Current medical nutrition therapy focuses on maintaining consistent carbohydrate levels rather than on sugar-free foods. It is interesting to note that many patients who have had diabetes for a number of years still insist on the sugar-free items, so it is best to understand the patient before suggesting any major dietary shifts.

-Nancy Collins, PhD, RD, LD/N, FAPWCA