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Sweet Relief: Sweeteners That Ease (or Exacerbate!) Your Chronic Pain





In her recent article “The Best and Worst Sweeteners for Chronic Pain Patients”, author Cindy Perlin (founder and CEO of the Alternative Pain Treatment Directory), provides an insightful analysis of how different sweeteners affect chronic pain management. Here are her findings:

  1. Impact of Sweeteners on Chronic Pain: Perlin finds that some sweeteners can have anti-inflammatory effects, potentially alleviating pain, while others may worsen symptoms or contribute to inflammation.

  2. Recommended Sweeteners: She highlights several sweeteners that are considered beneficial for chronic pain patients. For example, stevia is praised for its anti-inflammatory properties and low glycemic index, which can help manage pain without spiking blood sugar levels. Similarly, monk fruit is noted for its natural origin and potential pain-relief benefits. (Perlin also points out some natural sweeteners which are lower on the glycemic index, too!)

  3. Sweeteners to Avoid: The article cautions against sweeteners that might exacerbate chronic pain, such as high-fructose corn syrup and aspartame. High-fructose corn syrup is linked to increased inflammation and pain, while aspartame might trigger pain or headaches in some individuals.

  4. General Advice: As a takeaway, Perlin emphasizes the importance of individualized dietary choices. The impact of sweeteners can vary from person to person, so it is recommended that patients monitor their responses to different sweeteners and consult with healthcare providers to tailor their choices to their specific needs.


Overall, the article provides a balanced overview of sweeteners’ potential effects on chronic pain, offering practical advice for those seeking to optimize their diet for better pain management. Read the full article here! Comment below if you'd like to see one of our favorite naturally-sweetened recipes!

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