In the lab setting, the polyols do not cause insulin or blood sugar to rise, so many manufacturers claim they contribute no significant carbs. However, what happens in the human intestinal tract is a different story. Many diabetics, and persons with insulin-resistance in fact have measured sharp spikes in blood sugar after consuming these products. Read Dr. Bernstein's Diabetes Solution for more info on this.

Polyols are often not included in the carb counts because there is no government regulation as to their classification (ie, they are recognised as being carbohydrate, but unlike starch, sugar and fiber, there are no guidelines for their declaration on food labels) In Canada and the E.U., products are including polyols in the total carb counts VOLUNTARILY

For more info, check out the articles Sugar Alcohols and Sweetener Information in our Low Carb Tips section from the menu bar at the top.

Doreen