Dietary management for diabetes and regulations on sugar substitutes

Dietary management for diabetes and insulin resistance requires more than just monitoring the glycemic index. While a useful indicator, factors such as portion size, carbohydrate quantity, caloric intake, fiber content, and the overall composition of a meal are critical for managing glucose levels.

In Poland, approximately 3.1 million people aged 20-79 were living with diabetes in 2024, according to the International Diabetes Federation. Type 2 diabetes, characterized by insulin resistance and impaired insulin secretion, is the most common form and is influenced by factors like body weight and physical activity.

Regarding food additives, sodium cyclamate (E952) is a popular sugar substitute used in various foods and supplements. While banned in the United States since 1970 due to historical studies involving rats, the World Health Organization classifies it as ‘not classifiable as to carcinogenicity to humans.’ In Poland and the EU, its use is permitted but strictly regulated, with a maximum daily dose of 7 mg/kg of body weight.