What are Double D SmartSweets?
Double D SmartSweets are a line of confectionery products from Australian company Double D, developed as a healthier alternative to traditional, sugar-laden lollies. Unlike the popular North American SmartSweets brand, the Australian version utilizes different ingredients, including some sugar alcohols. The brand is known for offering sweets that are low in sugar, high in prebiotic fiber, and free from artificial colors and flavors. These gummies and bears are also vegan, gluten-free, and suitable for keto diets. By using natural sweeteners like stevia and erythritol, they aim to satisfy sweet cravings with fewer calories and less impact on blood sugar levels.
The nutritional breakdown: Smart or just hype?
To determine if Double D SmartSweets are healthy, it's crucial to look at their core ingredients and nutritional profile. The brand highlights its use of natural sweeteners and a high prebiotic fiber content, but these components warrant a closer look.
Key ingredients explained
- Soluble Fibre (from corn & tapioca starch): This is a primary ingredient, significantly boosting the fiber content per bag. This prebiotic fiber helps feed beneficial gut bacteria and can aid in digestion. Some individuals might experience digestive discomfort if consumed in large amounts, especially if not accustomed to a high-fiber diet.
- Natural Sweeteners (Erythritol, Stevia): Erythritol is a sugar alcohol that provides sweetness with minimal calories and a low glycemic impact. However, excessive consumption of sugar alcohols can cause a laxative effect, gas, and bloating in some people. Stevia is a natural, zero-calorie sweetener derived from the stevia plant.
- Natural Flavors and Colors: The vibrant flavors and colors come from natural sources like fruit and vegetable juice concentrates, avoiding the artificial additives found in many mainstream candies.
- Pectin: This plant-based ingredient gives the gummies their chewy texture, making them a suitable option for vegans.
The comparison: SmartSweets vs. Traditional Candy
| Feature | Double D SmartSweets | Traditional Candy | Benefit of SmartSweets |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sugar Content | Very low (approx. 3g per bag) | Very high (typically 20g+ per serving) | Significantly reduced sugar intake for blood sugar control |
| Fiber Content | High (15-22g per bag) | Negligible | Aids digestion and promotes satiety |
| Calorie Count | Low (approx. 50-75 calories per bag) | High (often 100+ calories per serving) | Better for weight management efforts |
| Sweeteners | Natural (Stevia, Erythritol) | Refined sugar, High Fructose Corn Syrup | Avoids the negative effects of excessive sugar consumption |
| Artificial Additives | None | Common | Eliminates potential concerns regarding artificial colors and flavors |
| Dietary Suitability | Vegan, Gluten-Free, Keto-Friendly | Often contains gelatin, gluten, and high carbs | Inclusive for a wider range of dietary needs |
Are there any drawbacks to consider?
While Double D SmartSweets present a compelling nutritional profile compared to standard candy, they are not without potential downsides. The presence of sugar alcohols like erythritol is a double-edged sword. While it provides low-calorie sweetness, overconsumption can lead to significant digestive issues, including stomach cramps, gas, and a laxative effect. Individuals with sensitive digestive systems, particularly those with conditions like IBS, should be mindful of their intake. It is recommended to follow the serving size on the packet.
Furthermore, while high in fiber, the primary source is soluble fiber from corn and tapioca starch. Some sources suggest that for some people, large amounts of certain types of soluble fiber can still lead to a blood sugar spike, though not as dramatic as regular sugar. Therefore, relying on them as a daily, keto-friendly staple without checking one's individual metabolic response might be risky for some following very strict diets. As with any processed food, even a healthier version, mindful consumption is key.
What do we conclude about their healthiness?
Ultimately, the question of whether Double D SmartSweets are healthy depends on context and perspective. They are undoubtedly a far better alternative to conventional candy, which is loaded with refined sugar and artificial additives. For someone with a sweet tooth looking to cut down on sugar and calories, or for those with dietary restrictions like celiac disease or a vegan lifestyle, they are a genuinely smart swap. The added prebiotic fiber is a bonus for gut health. However, they are not a health food and shouldn't be consumed indiscriminately. They are a better candy, not a vegetable. The potential for digestive discomfort from sugar alcohols and the sheer novelty of a low-sugar candy could lead to overconsumption. The company itself notes that they are passionate about making sweets that help you live a healthy lifestyle without compromising on deliciousness, positioning them as a healthier treat rather than a true health product.
For more information on the company's products and ingredients, you can visit their official FAQ page.
In conclusion, Double D SmartSweets are a guilt-free indulgence in moderation. They successfully address many of the health concerns associated with traditional candy, providing a sweet treat that aligns with modern dietary trends like low-sugar, high-fiber, and plant-based diets. Just be aware of your body's sensitivity to sugar alcohols and practice portion control to truly benefit from this smarter sweet. They allow individuals to maintain a healthy lifestyle while still enjoying a delicious treat.
