What’s the Meaning w/Sugar-Free?

Sugar-free doesn’t mean carbohydrate-free. Sugar-free foods may play a role in your diabetes diet – but sugar-free doesn’t mean carbohydrate-free. When you’re choosing between standard products and their sugar-free counterparts, compare the food labels side by side. If the sugar-free product has noticeably fewer carbohydrates, the sugar-free product might be the better choice. But if there’s little difference in carbohydrate grams between the two foods, let taste – or price – be your guide.
No sugar added, but not necessarily no carbohydrates. The same caveat applies to products sporting a “no sugar added” label. Although these foods don’t contain high-sugar ingredients and no sugar is added during processing or packaging, foods without added sugar may still be high in carbohydrates.
Sugar alcohols contain carbohydrates and calories, too. Likewise, products that contain sugar alcohols – such as sorbitol, xylitol and mannitol – aren’t necessarily low in carbohydrates or calories.

Beware of fat-free products

Per gram, fat has more than twice the calories of carbohydrate or protein. If you’re trying to lose weight, fat-free foods might sound like just the ticket. But don’t be fooled by “fat-free” food labels.
Fat-free can still have carbohydrates. Fat-free foods can have more carbohydrates and contain nearly as many calories as the standard version of the same food. The lesson? You guessed it. Compare food labels for fat-free and standard products carefully before you make a decision.
And remember that the amount of total fat listed on a food label doesn’t tell the whole story. Look for a breakdown of types of fat.
Choose healthier fats. Although still high in calories, monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats can help lower your cholesterol and protect your heart.
Limit unhealthy fats. Saturated and trans fats raise your cholesterol and increase your risk of heart disease.