That depends on the person. For some people sugar alcohols will have just as much impact on thier blood sugar as the regular sugar would. The bulking agents used can also effect carb count and blood sugars.

This page has an interesting table looking at the different calorie amounts in sugar alcohols http://www11.netrition.com/lowcarbs...ritol_page.html

For me even a small amount of malitol causes extreamly bad gas, bloating, and occasional diareah. I don't go near it for the most part. Occasionaly I'll get that wonderful amnesia and decide to have an Atkins icecream bar or a piece of sugar free candy. I pay for it too.