Allulose: Benefits, Side Effects, Dangers, Uses

Original Article by Jo Pinon

Sugar: the love-hate relationship continues. We crave its sweetness yet worry about its impact on health. But what if there was a sweetener that offered the deliciousness without the drawbacks?

Allulose is a rising star in the world of sugar alternatives. But with so much information out there, navigating its benefits, potential downsides, and best uses can be overwhelming.

This blog is your guide to unlocking the secrets of allulose. We’ll explore its unique properties, look into its science-backed benefits, and address any concerns you might have.

What is allulose?

Allulose might sound like a lab-created novelty, but it’s actually hiding in plain sight. Ever enjoyed a handful of raisins or savored a sweet fig? You’ve experienced allulose firsthand!

This naturally occurring sugar is found in small amounts in certain foods, dried fruits like raisins and figs, and even maple syrup [1]. Though present in nature, its concentration is relatively low, making commercial extraction necessary for wider use.

This is where science steps in. Allulose is extracted from corn or beet sugar through a gentle process called enzymatic conversion [2]. This method carefully transforms the sugar’s structure, resulting in a sweetener with remarkable properties.

Compared to its sugar counterpart, allulose boasts several advantages:

Low in calories

Allulose contains only 0.4 calories per gram, a mere fraction of sugar’s 4 calories [3]. This translates to significantly fewer calories in your favorite treats, making it a valuable tool for weight management or mindful eating.

Helps balance blood sugar

Unlike sugar, which sends your blood sugar levels on a rollercoaster ride, allulose takes a different path.

Its unique absorption process minimizes its impact on blood sugar and insulin levels, making it a potential ally for people with diabetes or pre-diabetes.

Naturally sweet

Allulose boasts a sweetness level of around 70% that of sugar [4], satisfying your sweet tooth without the unwanted consequences.

This makes it a versatile substitute for sugar in baking, cooking, and even beverages, allowing you to enjoy delicious sweetness without sacrificing flavor.

What are the benefits of allulose?

Allulose isn’t just a low-calorie sugar substitute; it’s a potential health-promoting sweetener gaining traction in the world of wellness.

While its lack of blood sugar impact makes it a star for those with diabetes or prediabetes, its potential benefits extend far beyond sweetness, offering a glimpse into a healthier future.

Minimal effect on blood sugar levels

Due to its unique absorption by the body, it has minimal impact on both blood sugar and insulin levels.

This makes it a promising option for people with diabetes or prediabetes, offering a way to enjoy sweet treats without the worry of spikes and crashes.

A study published in the Journal of Functional Foods found that allulose consumption, compared to sucrose, led to significantly lower blood sugar and insulin levels in adults without diabetes [5].

Helps with weight loss

Allulose is a great low-calorie option for weight management, as it only has 0.4 calories per gram.

Early research shows promise, with a 2015 study in the journal Obesity suggesting that allulose may help decrease body fat, body fat mass, and BMI compared to a placebo [6].

However, it’s important to remember that weight management is a complex issue, and while allulose may play a supportive role, it should be combined with a balanced diet and regular physical activity for sustainable results. More research is also needed to solidify its long-term impact on weight management.

Other potential benefits

Emerging research suggests it could offer advantages in areas like gut health, dental health, and even inflammation.

Studies indicate allulose may promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, potentially contributing to a healthier gut microbiome crucial for overall well-being [7].

Animal studies hint at allulose’s ability to prevent the formation of dental plaque, offering a glimmer of hope for a future with fewer cavities. However, further research is needed to confirm its effectiveness in humans.

Early research suggests allulose may possess anti-inflammatory properties [8], but further investigation is crucial to understand its potential impact and mechanisms.

While allulose shows promise, it’s crucial to consult healthcare professionals before making significant dietary changes, especially if you have underlying health conditions.

Additionally, moderation is key, as excessive consumption of any sweetener can have unintended consequences.

How does allulose compare with other sweeteners?

When considering a switch from sugar to alternative sweeteners, it’s crucial to understand how allulose stacks up against its counterparts like stevia, erythritol, and xylitol.

Each of these sweeteners offers unique benefits and potential drawbacks depending on individual health goals, dietary restrictions, and taste preferences.

Allulose is praised for its sugar-like taste and minimal impact on blood glucose levels, making it an excellent option for those managing diabetes or watching their calorie intake.

Unlike artificial sweeteners, allulose is found naturally in small quantities in fruits and provides about 70% of the sweetness of sugar with nearly no calories.

Stevia, derived from the leaves of the Stevia rebaudiana plant [9], is a zero-calorie sweetener that is much sweeter than sugar.

While beneficial for those avoiding calories and managing blood sugar levels, some people may find its taste slightly bitter, especially at higher concentrations.

Erythritol is a sugar alcohol with a taste close to sugar but with only about 6% of the calories [10]. It has a minimal effect on blood sugar levels, making it suitable for diabetics.

However, like other sugar alcohols, it can cause digestive issues in some individuals when consumed in large amounts.

Xylitol, another sugar alcohol, has a sweetness comparable to sugar but with 40% fewer calories [11]. It’s often highlighted for its dental benefits, such as reducing the risk of tooth decay.

However, xylitol can also lead to digestive discomfort if ingested in significant quantities and is highly toxic to dogs.

Below is a table summarizing the features each sweetener and how they compare with each other:

Sweetener	Caloric content	Sweetness relative to sugar	Impact on blood sugar	Notable benefits
Allulose	Very low	70%	Minimal	Natural, minimal calorie, tastes like sugar
Stevia	Zero	200-300 times	None	Zero calorie, no glycemic impact
Erythritol	Low	70-80%	Minimal	Low calorie, minimal glycemic impact
Xylitol	Reduced	Equal	Low	Dental health benefits, reduced calorie

Where can you find allulose naturally?

Fruits rich in allulose

Several fruits are known for their allulose content, although in smaller quantities compared to their commercial form. Figs and raisins stand out as two of the most significant natural sources [12].

A serving of dried figs or raisins can provide a sweet treat while contributing a minimal amount of allulose to your diet.

Jackfruit, another allulose-rich fruit, offers a tropical flair with its sweet, unique flavor, making it a versatile ingredient for both sweet and savory dishes.

Other natural sources

Beyond fruits, allulose is also present in smaller amounts in other foods like maple syrup and brown sugar.

While these sources contain higher sugar levels overall, they introduce the idea that allulose coexists with other sugars in natural products. This coexistence highlights the ability of sugar to blend seamlessly into a balanced diet.

What is the downside of allulose?

Like any sweetener, allulose is not without its potential downsides, and understanding them is crucial for making informed choices.

1. Digestive discomfort

Like many sugar substitutes, allulose can cause some gastrointestinal discomfort at high doses [13]. Bloating, gas, and diarrhea are the most common culprits.

This is because allulose isn’t fully absorbed by the body, leading to fermentation in the gut.

However, it’s important to remember individual variability – some people experience these issues more readily than others.

Moderation is key! Start with small amounts and gradually increase intake, paying attention to your body’s response. If you experience discomfort, reduce your intake or consider alternative sweeteners.

2. Muscle cell concerns

Some limited research suggests a potential link between allulose and muscle cell injury in exercise conditions [14]. However, the picture is far from clear.

These studies primarily focused on very high doses and specific exercise scenarios, making it difficult to translate the findings to general use.

More research is urgently needed to understand the potential impact of allulose on muscle health, especially for athletes or individuals engaging in intense exercise.

3. Relatively new

Despite its natural origins, allulose’s widespread use as a sweetener is relatively recent. While initial safety studies are promising, longer-term data is crucial to establish its long-term safety profile.

This is especially important for individuals with pre-existing conditions or specific dietary needs.

While potential side effects exist, it’s important to maintain perspective. Digestive discomfort is typically manageable through moderation, and research on muscle cell concerns remains inconclusive.

Ultimately, the decision of whether to include allulose in your diet is a personal one. Consult your healthcare professional for personalized guidance, especially if you have underlying health conditions or engage in strenuous exercise regularly.

What are the uses of allulose?

As a sweetener substitute

Allulose is a direct substitute for sugar in a wide array of products, including drinks, baked goods, and desserts.

Its remarkable similarity to sugar in taste and texture means you can enjoy your morning coffee, homemade cookies, or yogurt without the calorie burden or blood sugar spike associated with regular sugar.

Research indicates that combining allulose with sucrose can significantly reduce the glycemic response when added to foods, making it an excellent choice for managing blood sugar levels [5].

Keto-friendly sweetener

For those on a ketogenic diet or anyone monitoring their carbohydrate intake, allulose offers a compatible solution.

Its negligible contribution to net carbs allows for the inclusion of sweetened foods and desserts in a low-carb diet, enhancing dietary adherence and satisfaction.

This adaptability is invaluable for creating a varied, enjoyable meal plan that still aligns with nutritional goals.

Baking and cooking 

Allulose also excels in baking and cooking applications, offering a similar browning and moisture-retaining property as sugar, which is crucial for texture and flavor in baked goods.

While it’s a versatile ingredient, some recipes may require slight modifications to achieve the desired outcome.

Bakers might find allulose browns more quickly than traditional sugar, necessitating a reduction in cooking time or a slight adjustment in temperature [15].

This adaptability in culinary applications makes allulose a preferred choice for those looking to maintain traditional cooking and baking practices while reducing sugar intake.

Is allulose approved for your diet? Check out its regulatory status

The FDA’s progressive approach to allulose is reshaping how we view sweeteners, particularly for those prioritizing health and wellness in their diet.

Highlighting its unique nature, the FDA’s draft guidance exempts allulose from being included in total and added sugars on nutrition labels, acknowledging its lower caloric value and negligible impact on blood glucose and insulin levels [16].

This move, a first for a sugar substance, emphasizes a science-based, flexible stance on food labeling, aiming to provide consumers with the most relevant information for their dietary choices.

Allulose, identified in natural sources like wheat, figs, and raisins, is distinguished by its low-calorie profile and minimal effect on blood sugar, characteristics that make it an appealing option for those managing diabetes or seeking weight management solutions.

With the FDA allowing manufacturers to count allulose as 0.4 calories per gram—significantly lower than traditional sugar—it’s clear that allulose stands apart from other sugars and sweeteners in its metabolic effects and potential health benefits.

Internationally, the regulatory landscape is evolving, with entities like the Allulose Novel Food Consortium pushing for approval and recognition across Europe and the UK [17].

This collaborative effort underscores the global interest in allulose as a beneficial food ingredient beyond its low-calorie sweetening properties, potentially influencing sugar reduction policies and offering new opportunities for the food industry.

For individuals navigating dietary choices, the regulatory clarity and scientific backing of allulose offer a promising avenue for enjoying sweetness without compromising health goals.

As always, integrating any sweetener into a balanced diet should be done thoughtfully, with consideration for individual health needs and in consultation with healthcare professionals.

Closing thoughts

Exploring allulose offers a promising path toward enjoying sweetness without compromising your health goals.

This unique sugar substitute not only provides a safer alternative for those managing diabetes or watching their caloric intake but also brings a delightful sweetness to your diet with minimal impact on blood sugar levels.

Remember, the key to a balanced diet is moderation and variety. If you’re considering making allulose a part of your dietary regimen, consulting with a healthcare professional can provide personalized guidance based on your specific needs.

Embrace the opportunity to enhance your meals and treats with allulose, and take a proactive step towards a healthier, more balanced lifestyle. Let your journey to wellness be sweetened with the right choices.

FAQs

Is allulose good for diabetics?

Allulose is considered beneficial for diabetics due to its low impact on blood sugar levels and minimal calorie content, making it a safe sweetener alternative that can help manage glucose control without sacrificing sweetness in the diet.

What is allulose made from?

Allulose is primarily made from corn and other natural sources through an enzymatic process that converts fructose from these plants into allulose, resulting in a sweetener that closely mimics the taste and texture of conventional sugar.

Which is better allulose or stevia?

Choosing between allulose and stevia depends on individual preferences and health goals; allulose offers a taste closer to sugar with minimal calories, while stevia is calorie-free but may have a distinct aftertaste some find less desirable.

Is allulose better than honey?

Whether allulose is better than honey depends on dietary goals; allulose has fewer calories and does not impact blood sugar, making it appealing for weight management and diabetes, while honey offers natural antioxidants but with higher calories and sugar content.

[1] https://foodinsight.org/what-is-allulose-a-different-kind-of-low-calorie-sweetener/
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9414979/
[3] https://health.clevelandclinic.org/what-is-allulose
[4] https://www.webmd.com/diet/features/what-is-allulose
[5] https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S175646462300169X
[6] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5852736/
[7] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7071329/
[8] https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1756464623003213
[9] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stevia
[10] https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/erythritol
[11] https://www.nationalgeographic.com/science/article/130717-sugar-substitutes-nutrasweet-splenda-stevia-baking
[12] https://www.splenda.com/blog/everything-you-need-to-know-about-allulose/
[13] https://www.cspinet.org/article/allulose
[14] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8170266/
[15] https://www.thegoalz.com/blogs/allulose/allulose-in-baking-cooking
[16] https://www.fda.gov/news-events/fda-brief/fda-brief-fda-allows-low-calorie-sweetener-allulose-be-excluded-total-and-added-sugars-counts
[17] https://foodnewsinternational.com/2022/02/15/europe-companies-form-allulose-consortium-to-enter-markets/