Allulose: Fad Sweetener or the Real Deal?

Allulose is becoming a popular choice as an alternative to traditional sugar (sucrose) making its way into everything from protein bars to your favorite low-cal ice cream. But what is allulose exactly and is it healthy?

We have all you need to know about allulose right here.

Allulose, a Rare Sugar

Allulose is considered a rare sugar, which is basically a sugar that can be found in nature in small quantities. It can be found naturally in fruits like raisins, figs, and jackfruit.

Although it’s about 70% as sweet as the sugar you know and love (but try to stay away from), allulose tastes, feels and cooks just like regular sugar.

But, unlike regular sugar, the way allulose is processed by the human body makes it an optimal choice for many people looking to live a healthier lifestyle.

Is Allulose Healthy?

Yes, it’s naturally occurring, but is it healthy? Research has shown that “around 70% of allulose is excreted in urine and that it has very low fermentability in the gut—meaning you’re less likely to experience gas, bloating, and digestive upset after eating it.”¹ This is good news for the many who suffer from stomach problems after consuming other types of sweeteners (such as sugar alcohols and some high fiber prebiotics)

The general consensus from several studies over the past 10 years has shown it to be safe.^2,3,4,5

The Benefits of Allulose

Allulose contains less than 10% of the calories of regular sugar (sucrose) and yet provides a sweet taste that is almost indistinguishable from regular sugar.  So, teaspoon for teaspoon or cup for cup, you can get the sweet taste with only a fraction of the calories found in traditional sugar.  And, keep in mind that allulose is a simple sugar that occurs in nature – it is not an artificial sweetener.

Another benefit is that allulose can “inhibit the tendency to overfeed on sugary foods”^1. 

So, unlike regular sugar which makes you crave more of it, allulose can actually help you feel satisfied longer. This alone could prove to be one of allulose’s biggest health pluses.

Studies have shown that allulose might be beneficial for those suffering from type 2 diabetes. Allulose administration has been shown to lower blood sugar levels and minimize insulin secretion, thus helping control blood glucose levels.²

A 2015 study showed that allulose directly aided in fat loss.³

Obese animals in this study experienced a reduction in total fat mass and abdominal visceral fat. Along with fat loss, blood glucose management, another potential health benefits of allulose includes “oxidative stress protection, enhanced energy expenditure, and reduced inflammation.”¹

Where to Find it

You won’t be able to find allulose in most general grocery stores just yet, but it’s easy to find online.  Since most commercially available allulose comes from corn, you’ll want to make sure that you purchase allulose that comes from non-GMO sources.

And, be on the lookout as we release some products made with non-GMO allulose in the near future.

Be sure to also check out our article about the Top Benefits of Allulose for more information

1. Mark’s Daily Apple
2. ACS Chemistry for Life
3. U.S. National Library of Medicine
4. Wiley Online Library
5. Wiley Online Library
6. Science Direct