Question

A nurse is providing dietary teaching for a client who has just learned that she has type 2 diabetes mellitus. The nurse should explain that which of the following sweeteners will add calories to the client's carbohydrate count?

A. Sorbitol
B. Sucralose
C. Aspartame
D. Acesulfame potassium

Answer 1

Sorbitol is the sweetener that adds calories to a client's carbohydrate count, and unlike sucralose, aspartame, and acesulfame potassium, it can affect blood glucose levels.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should explain to the client that Sorbitol is the sweetener that will add calories to the client's carbohydrate count. Sorbitol falls under the category of sugar alcohols and, unlike most artificial sweeteners that are used in very small amounts and do not significantly add to the caloric content of foods, sorbitol does contain calories. Although sorbitol is often used as a sweetener for individuals with diabetes, because of its slower digestion and absorption, it still provides calories and can affect blood glucose levels. On the other hand, sucralose, aspartame, and acesulfame potassium are noncaloric or low-calorie sweeteners that can provide sweetness without adding to the carbohydrate count.