Sugar doesn’t have to be off-limits if you have diabetes.

A registered dietitian explains how to make sweet treats blood-sugar friendly.

If you have diabetes, does that mean eating dessert is completely off-limits?

Chocolate-Peanut Butter Energy Bars

Pictured Recipe:Chocolate-Peanut Butter Energy Bars

Thankfully, that’s not true.

Just because desserts contain sugar does not mean a person with diabetes should avoid them altogether.

This is likely why people with diabetes may have the impression that they can’t enjoy sweet foods.

However, the ingredients in a dessert matter in terms of your blood sugar response.

Same goes for protein and fat.

Can You Eat Desserts If You Have Diabetes?

Yes, you’re free to enjoy dessert if you have diabetes.

It’s all about considering your individual needs.

Portion control is also key for avoiding crazy blood sugar spikes.

In addition, you may also include sweets made with sugar alternatives.

Research published in theJournal of Medical Academicsin 2018 shows that artificial sweeteners impact blood glucose less than regular sugar.

“It really depends on each person and their taste preference,” she says.

However, some people may be more sensitive to artificial sweeteners and could experience digestive issues.

The timing of when you eat dessert can also make a difference in blood sugar levels.

Make a blood-sugar-friendly dessert at home with one of these25 Diabetes-Friendly Desserts You’ll Want to Make Forever.

Sweets can be enjoyed in moderation.

These sweeteners won’t raise blood sugar as much as a traditional sugary dessert.