Are you a gummy bear lover but trying to cut down on sugar? You may have come across sugar-free options such as the 25 pieces (40 g) Sugar free gummy bears. With only 130 calories, they seem like a great alternative, but are they really healthy for you?
Before we dive into the details, let's take a look at the Nutritional value of these gummy bears. Each serving size of 25 pieces (40 g) contains 7 g of carbohydrates, 0 g of fat, and 0 g of protein.
In this article, we'll explore the Caloric content, benefits, recipe, Healthy alternatives, and Side effects of sugar-free gummy bears to help you make an informed decision.
What are Sugar Free Gummy Bears?
Sugar-free gummy bears are chewy candies that are made without any added sugar. They are sweetened with artificial sweeteners such as stevia, erythritol, or xylitol. These gummy bears look and taste similar to regular gummy bears, but they have a lower calorie count and glycemic index.
Nutritional Value of Sugar Free Gummy Bears
A serving size of 25 pieces (40 g) sugar-free gummy bears contains 130 calories, 7 g of carbohydrates, 0 g of fat, and 0 g of protein. They are also high in fiber and sugar alcohols like xylitol and erythritol.
The Number of Calories in a Serving of Sugar Free Gummy Bears
As mentioned earlier, a serving size of 25 pieces (40 g) sugar-free gummy bears contains 130 calories.
The Number of Pieces of Sugar Free Gummy Bears in a Serving
A serving size of sugar-free gummy bears is 25 pieces or 40 g.
Caloric Content of 25 Pieces of Sugar Free Gummy Bears
A serving size of 25 pieces (40 g) sugar-free gummy bears contains 130 calories.
Benefits of Eating Sugar Free Gummy Bears
Sugar-free gummy bears have several potential benefits, such as:
- Lower calorie count compared to regular gummy bears
- Lower glycemic index, which means they won't spike your blood sugar levels as much
- No added sugar, making them a good option for individuals with diabetes or those trying to limit their sugar intake
- High in fiber and sugar alcohols, which can promote satiety and digestive health
How to Make Sugar Free Gummy Bears
If you're interested in making your own sugar-free gummy bears at home, here's a simple recipe:
- Combine 1/2 cup of cold water and 2 packets of unflavored gelatin in a bowl. Let it set for 10 minutes.
- Heat 1/2 cup of fruit juice (such as apple or grape) and 2 tablespoons of your preferred sugar substitute over medium heat until it comes to a boil.
- Add the gelatin mixture to the fruit juice mixture and stir until the gelatin is completely dissolved.
- Pour the mixture into silicone gummy bear molds and refrigerate until firm. Enjoy!
Healthy Alternatives to Sugar Free Gummy Bears
If you're looking for healthier alternatives to sugar-free gummy bears, try these options instead:
- Fruit snacks made with real fruit
- Dried fruit like raisins, dates, or apricots
- Rice cakes or popcorn
- Rice crackers or whole-grain crackers
- Cut-up veggies with hummus or guacamole
Side Effects of Eating Too Many Sugar Free Gummy Bears
While sugar-free gummy bears can be a great snack option in moderation, consuming high amounts of sugar alcohols like xylitol and erythritol can cause Side effects such as:
- Diarrhea
- Gas and bloating
- Abdominal pain
- Headaches
- Joint pain or inflammation
If you experience any of these symptoms, it's best to cut back on your sugar alcohol intake and consult with a healthcare professional.
Conclusion
Sugar-free gummy bears can be a tasty and convenient snack option for those trying to limit their sugar intake. They have a lower calorie count and glycemic index compared to regular gummy bears and are made without any added sugar. However, it's important to consume them in moderation, as consuming high amounts of sugar alcohols can cause Side effects like diarrhea and bloating. If you're looking for healthier alternatives, try fruit snacks or veggies with hummus or guacamole. Happy snacking!
Health is not about the weight you lose, but about the life you gain. - Dr. Axe
Frequently Asked Questions About Sugar free gummy bears
1. Are sugar free gummy bears really lower in calories than regular gummy bears?
Yes, sugar free gummy bears typically have fewer Calories per serving than regular gummy bears. The 25 pieces (40 g) of sugar free gummy bears mentioned above contain 130 calories, whereas the same quantity of regular gummy bears can contain up to 160 calories.
2. Can I eat sugar free gummy bears on a low-carb or keto diet?
In general, sugar free gummy bears are a good snack option for people following low-carb or keto diets. However, it's important to note that some brands of sugar free gummy bears contain significant amounts of artificial sweeteners, which some people prefer to avoid.
3. Are sugar free gummy bears safe to eat?
While sugar free gummy bears can be a tasty treat, they should be consumed in moderation. Some brands of sugar free gummy bears contain sugar alcohols, which can cause digestive issues if consumed in excess. Additionally, some sugar free gummy bears have been known to cause gastrointestinal distress if eaten in large quantities.
4. Do sugar free gummy bears taste different than regular gummy bears?
Yes, sugar free gummy bears often have a slightly different taste compared to regular gummy bears. This is because they are sweetened with sugar substitutes like stevia or xylitol instead of regular sugar.
5. Can I eat sugar free gummy bears as part of a balanced diet?
Like any snack, sugar free gummy bears can be part of a balanced diet if consumed in moderation. They shouldn't be relied upon as a primary source of nutrition, but can be a fun and tasty treat when enjoyed in the proper serving size.