<![CDATA[This study aimed to analyze differences in blood sugar control in patients with diabetes mellitus based on the type of sweetener consumed, namely palm sugar and refined sugar. The study used a comparative analytical observational method with a cross-sectional approach. Respondents in this study were patients with diabetes mellitus who consumed palm sugar or refined sugar as their primary sweetener. Data were collected through interviews using questionnaires and a Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ), as well as measurements of fasting blood sugar (FBS) and two-hour postprandial blood sugar (2-hour postprandial blood sugar) using a glucometer. Data were analyzed univariately and bivariately using the independent t-test or Mann–Whitney U test according to the data distribution, with a 95% significance level. The results showed that respondents who consumed palm sugar had lower average fasting blood sugar and two-hour postprandial blood sugar levels than those who consumed refined sugar. Statistical analysis revealed a significant difference between the type of sweetener consumed and blood sugar control (p < 0.05). It was concluded that palm sugar consumption is associated with better blood sugar control compared to refined sugar consumption in people with diabetes mellitus. Palm sugar has the potential to be a better natural sweetener alternative, but its use still requires careful consideration of consumption amounts and the principles of a balanced diabetes diet. Keywords: Blood Sugar Control, Diabetes, Family, Palm Sugar.]]>
