Nutrition Diva The science (and sales appeal) of low net carb candies
Apr 1, 2026
A look inside low net carb candies and the ingredient tricks that make them seem healthier. Short breakdowns of sugar alcohols and functional fibers and how they act in the body. A plain explanation of how manufacturers calculate “net carbs.” A discussion of marketing tactics that moralize snacks and affect how we choose treats.
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Sugar Alcohols Give Calories But Can Upset Digestion
- Sugar alcohols like erythritol and isomalt are carbohydrates that provide fewer calories because they're not fully absorbed and metabolized.
- Erythritol is generally better tolerated but isomalt and other polyols can draw water into the intestines and be fermented, causing gas and diarrhea.
Functional Fibers Add Fiber But May Cause Gas
- Functional fibers such as soluble corn fiber and polydextrose resist small intestine digestion and count as fiber on labels.
- These fibers are fermented in the colon producing short-chain fatty acids but also substantial gas that can cause bloating.
Net Carbs Are A Marketing Math Trick
- Net carbs is an unregulated marketing term manufacturers calculate by subtracting fiber and some or all sugar alcohols from total carbs.
- Example: 37g total carbs minus 26g fiber minus 8g sugar alcohols yields about 3g net carbs on the front label.