Answer: Yes, Extra Sugar Free Gum is keto-friendly. It contains no sugar and negligible carbs. The sweeteners used (sorbitol, aspartame) don't significantly impact blood sugar or ketosis. However, consume in moderation as excessive sugar alcohols may cause digestive issues.
Extra Sugar Free Gum - Spearmint by Wrigley is a popular sugar-free chewing gum option.
Macronutrient analysis: One stick (2.7g) contains 5 calories, 2g of carbohydrates, 0g of fiber, 0g of protein, and 0g of fat. The absence of fiber means the net carbs are also 2g per stick.
For keto dieters, the 2g net carbs per stick is relatively low but not insignificant. While it can fit into a ketogenic diet, consumption should be monitored to avoid exceeding daily carb limits.
Benefits for keto dieters include satisfying sweet cravings without consuming sugar, potentially reducing overall carb intake. The gum may also help with oral hygiene and fresh breath, which can be concerns on a keto diet.
Drawbacks include the presence of artificial sweeteners, which some keto dieters prefer to avoid. Additionally, the 2g of carbs per stick can add up if multiple pieces are consumed throughout the day.
A suggested serving size would be 1-2 sticks per day, fitting into a keto meal plan as an occasional treat or palate cleanser. It's important to account for these carbs in your daily total.
While not nutritionally significant, sugar-free gum may have dental health benefits by stimulating saliva production and reducing tooth decay. However, excessive consumption could lead to gastrointestinal discomfort due to sugar alcohols often used in sugar-free products.
In conclusion, Extra Sugar Free Gum can be included in a ketogenic diet in moderation, but careful portion control is necessary to maintain ketosis.