30+
Years of Research
10
Studies Cited
121
Trial Subjects
48
Week Long-Term
Randomized Controlled Trials Peer-Reviewed 10 Citations

Allulose Clinical Studies

The Research Behind the Rare Sugar Revolution

1
Gold-standard RCTs demonstrate allulose significantly reduces body fat percentage, BMI, and abdominal fat area in 12-week trials
2
Meta-analysis confirms both 5g and 10g doses significantly attenuate postprandial blood glucose levels (P = 0.02)
3
GLP-1 mechanism — allulose triggers the same satiety pathway targeted by popular weight management medications
4
48-week safety data shows no adverse effects on liver, kidney, or cardiovascular markers
Official FDA Statement
U.S. Food & Drug Administration

"The latest data suggests that Allulose is different from other sugars in that it is not metabolized by the human body in the same way as table sugar. Allulose has fewer calories, produces only negligible increases in blood glucose or insulin levels, and does not promote dental decay. As such, we've issued guidance today stating that we intend to exercise enforcement discretion to allow Allulose to be excluded from the total and added sugars declarations on the Nutrition Facts and Supplement Facts labels when Allulose is used as an ingredient."

Susan Mayne, Ph.D.
Director, FDA Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition
FDA Full Guidance

Unlike many sweetener alternatives that rely on theoretical benefits, allulose has been rigorously studied in randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials—the gold standard of scientific research. This extensive body of evidence demonstrates allulose's remarkable effects on body composition, blood glucose regulation, and metabolic health.

Section I

The Gold Standard: Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trials

The highest quality clinical evidence comes from randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials (RCTs). In these studies, participants are randomly assigned to receive either the treatment or a placebo, and neither the participants nor the researchers know who receives which until the study concludes. This design eliminates bias and provides the most reliable evidence of cause and effect.

Allulose has been evaluated in multiple RCTs, with results published in prestigious peer-reviewed journals. Jaca Sugar delivers pure allulose backed by this robust scientific foundation.

Section II

Landmark Study: Body Fat Reduction in Humans

A Preliminary Study for Evaluating the Dose-Dependent Effect of D-Allulose for Fat Mass Reduction in Adult Humans

Journal Nutrients (2018)
Design Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled
Duration 12 weeks
Participants 121 Korean adults (BMI ≥ 23 kg/m²)
Groups Placebo (n=48), Low d-allulose 4g×2/day (n=48), High d-allulose 7g×2/day (n=48)

Study Methodology

This study was designed to address limitations in previous research by using a larger sample size and appropriate placebo control (sucralose rather than high-fructose corn syrup, which can itself promote obesity). The random allocation sequence was computer-generated, and participants were kept blinded until study completion. Body composition was assessed using bioelectrical impedance analysis, while CT scans measured abdominal fat distribution.

Key Findings
  • Body fat percentage was significantly decreased following allulose supplementation
  • Body fat mass was significantly reduced in the allulose groups
  • The high-allulose group showed significant decrease in BMI
  • Total abdominal fat area was significantly reduced (measured by CT scan)
  • Subcutaneous fat area was significantly reduced in the high-dose group

Safety Profile

Importantly, the study found no significant differences in:

  • Nutrient intake between groups
  • Plasma lipid profiles
  • Markers of liver function
  • Markers of kidney function
  • Major inflammation markers

This demonstrates that allulose achieves its fat-reduction effects without adverse metabolic consequences.

Reference: Han Y, Kwon EY, Yu MK, et al. "A Preliminary Study for Evaluating the Dose-Dependent Effect of d-Allulose for Fat Mass Reduction in Adult Humans: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial." Nutrients. 2018;10(2):160. PubMed Central
Section III

Blood Glucose Control: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Allulose for the Attenuation of Postprandial Blood Glucose Levels in Healthy Humans: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Journal PLOS ONE (2023)
Study Type Systematic review and meta-analysis
Databases MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Central, JAMAS, CiNii
Focus Acute blood glucose response in healthy humans

This comprehensive meta-analysis pooled data from multiple clinical studies to evaluate the effect of allulose on postprandial (after-meal) blood glucose levels. The researchers used rigorous methodology including assessment of risk of bias and heterogeneity testing.

Key Findings
  • 5g intake significantly attenuated postprandial blood glucose levels (P = 0.02)
  • 10g intake significantly reduced blood glucose area under the curve
  • No considerable heterogeneity between studies (I² = 0%)
  • Results consistent across different study populations

Mechanisms Identified

The meta-analysis identified several mechanisms by which allulose attenuates blood glucose:

  • α-Glucosidase inhibition: Allulose inhibits intestinal enzymes that break down complex carbohydrates into absorbable sugars
  • Competitive absorption: Allulose shares glucose transporters (GLUT2, GLUT5), slowing glucose absorption
  • Glycogen synthesis: Allulose stimulates glycogen formation in the liver, removing glucose from circulation
  • GLP-1 release: Allulose induces GLP-1 secretion from intestinal L-cells, enhancing glucose regulation
Reference: Tanaka M, et al. "Allulose for the attenuation of postprandial blood glucose levels in healthy humans: A systematic review and meta-analysis." PLOS ONE. 2023;18(4):e0281150. PLOS ONE
4,000+
Products in Japan
0.4
kcal/gram
70%
Sweetness of Sugar
GRAS
FDA Status
Section IV

GLP-1 Release and Metabolic Benefits

GLP-1 Release and Vagal Afferent Activation Mediate the Beneficial Metabolic and Chronotherapeutic Effects of D-Allulose

Journal Nature Communications (2018)
Focus Mechanistic study of metabolic effects
Models Healthy and obese-diabetic animal models

This groundbreaking study, published in the prestigious journal Nature Communications, elucidated the mechanisms by which allulose produces its metabolic benefits. The research demonstrated that allulose triggers the same GLP-1 pathway targeted by popular weight management medications.

Key Findings
  • Oral allulose induces GLP-1 release from intestinal L-cells
  • Activates vagal afferent signaling to the brain
  • Reduces food intake through satiety pathways
  • Promotes glucose tolerance in both healthy and diabetic models
  • Effects were blunted by GLP-1 receptor blockade, confirming the mechanism
Chronotherapeutic Effects

A fascinating finding was that time-specific administration of allulose could correct arrhythmic overeating patterns. When administered at the light period onset, allulose ameliorated light-period-specific hyperphagia (excessive eating), visceral obesity, and glucose intolerance. This suggests allulose may have applications in correcting abnormal eating patterns.

Reference: Iwasaki Y, et al. "GLP-1 release and vagal afferent activation mediate the beneficial metabolic and chronotherapeutic effects of D-allulose." Nature Communications. 2018;9:113. Nature Communications
Section V

Effects on Blood Glucose in Western Populations

Effects of D-Allulose on Glucose Tolerance and Insulin Response to a Standard Oral Sucrose Load

Journal BMJ Open Diabetes Research & Care (2021)
Design Prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover
Participants 30 subjects without diabetes (US population)
Doses 2.5g, 5.0g, 7.5g, 10.0g (escalating)

This study was specifically designed to evaluate allulose efficacy in Western populations, as most previous research had been conducted in Asian populations. The crossover design allowed each participant to serve as their own control, increasing statistical power.

Key Findings
  • Allulose significantly reduced postprandial blood glucose levels in a US population
  • Effects were observed across multiple ethnic groups
  • Dose-dependent response confirmed
  • Results consistent with Asian population studies

The researchers noted that the glucose-lowering effect of allulose appears to be independent of insulin, with changes in insulin being secondary to changes in plasma glucose. This makes allulose potentially valuable for individuals with varying degrees of insulin sensitivity.

Reference: Braunstein CR, et al. "Effects of D-allulose on glucose tolerance and insulin response to a standard oral sucrose load: results of a prospective, randomized, crossover study." BMJ Open Diabetes Research & Care. 2021. PubMed Central
Section VI

Long-Term Safety: 48-Week Study

Safety and Efficacy of a 48-Week Long-Term Ingestion of D-Allulose

Journal Fundamental Toxicological Sciences (2020)
Design Randomized controlled trial
Duration 48 weeks (nearly 1 year)
Participants 90 individuals with elevated LDL cholesterol
Groups High-dose (15g/day), Low-dose (5g/day), Placebo

Long-term safety data is crucial for any food ingredient intended for daily consumption. This nearly year-long study provided reassurance about the safety profile of continued allulose intake.

Safety Findings
  • No significant alterations in total or LDL cholesterol
  • Long-term allulose consumption did not change cardiovascular risk factors
  • Modest improvement in hepatic enzyme activities
  • Improved fatty liver score
  • Well-tolerated with no significant adverse effects
Reference: Tanaka M, Kanasaki A, Hayashi N, et al. "Safety and efficacy of a 48-week long-term ingestion of D-Allulose in subjects with high LDL cholesterol levels." Fundamental Toxicological Sciences. 2020;7:15-31.

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Jaca Sugar delivers 100% pure allulose—the exact compound studied in clinical trials. No fillers, no additives, just the proven benefits.

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Section VII

Neuronal Effects and Appetite Regulation

D-Allulose Cooperates with Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 and Activates Proopiomelanocortin Neurons in the Arcuate Nucleus

Journal Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications (2022)
Focus CNS effects on appetite regulation

This mechanistic study explored how allulose affects the brain's appetite control centers, specifically the arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus—a key region for regulating food intake and energy balance.

Key Findings
  • Allulose activates GLP-1-responsive neurons in the arcuate nucleus
  • Allulose increases activity in 33% of POMC neurons (satiety-promoting neurons)
  • Allulose potentiates GLP-1 action on brain appetite centers
  • Central injection of allulose significantly decreases food intake at 1 and 2 hours

This research reveals that allulose doesn't just affect peripheral metabolism—it also works at the brain level to promote satiety and reduce appetite through the same neuronal pathways targeted by GLP-1 receptor agonist medications.

Reference: Hayakawa M, et al. "D-Allulose cooperates with glucagon-like peptide-1 and activates proopiomelanocortin neurons in the arcuate nucleus and central injection inhibits feeding in mice." Biochem Biophys Res Commun. 2022. PubMed
Section VIII

Comprehensive Review: The Knowns and Unknowns

Allulose in Human Diet: The Knowns and the Unknowns

Journal British Journal of Nutrition (2021)
Type Comprehensive scientific review

This authoritative review published in the British Journal of Nutrition synthesized the current state of scientific knowledge about allulose, providing valuable context for both researchers and consumers.

Key conclusions from the review:

  • Allulose is a naturally occurring rare sugar with approximately 70% sweetness of sucrose
  • Provides less than 0.4 kcal/g compared to 4 kcal/g for regular sugar
  • Has FDA GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) status
  • Does not need to be counted as sugar or contribute to total carbohydrates on nutrition labels
  • Has demonstrated effects on postprandial glucose and body composition in clinical studies
  • Japan uses allulose in over 4,000 products, providing extensive real-world safety data
Reference: "Allulose in human diet: the knowns and the unknowns." British Journal of Nutrition. 2021. Cambridge Core
Conclusion

Why Jaca Sugar is the Premium Choice

The clinical research on allulose is clear: this rare sugar offers genuine metabolic benefits when consumed in its pure form. Jaca Sugar stands as the premium choice for experiencing these research-backed benefits:

  • 100% Pure Allulose – The exact compound studied in clinical trials
  • No Additives or Fillers – Nothing to dilute or interfere with the proven effects
  • Superior Quality – Clean taste without the stinging or waxy textures of inferior products
  • FDA GRAS Status – Generally Recognized As Safe
  • 30+ Years of Research – Backed by decades of scientific investigation

When you choose Jaca, you're choosing the same pure allulose that has demonstrated significant effects on body fat, blood glucose, and metabolic health in rigorous clinical trials. Jaca is the rare sugar born from fruit—backed by science and trusted by health-conscious consumers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Has allulose been studied in clinical trials?

Yes, allulose has been studied in multiple randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials. Research published in peer-reviewed journals including Nutrients, Nature Communications, and BMJ Open Diabetes Research & Care has demonstrated allulose's effects on body composition, blood glucose, and metabolic health.

What did the randomized controlled trial show about allulose and body fat?

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial with 121 subjects found that allulose supplementation (7g twice daily) significantly decreased body fat percentage, body fat mass, and BMI. The high-dose group showed significant reductions in total abdominal fat and subcutaneous fat areas measured by CT scan over 12 weeks.

Does allulose help with blood sugar control according to research?

Yes, multiple clinical studies have shown allulose significantly attenuates postprandial blood glucose levels. A systematic review and meta-analysis published in PLOS ONE found that both 5g and 10g intake doses significantly reduced the area under the curve for blood glucose after meals in healthy humans.

How long have the clinical studies on allulose lasted?

Clinical studies on allulose have ranged from acute single-dose studies to long-term trials lasting up to 48 weeks. The safety and efficacy of allulose has been documented across short-term (acute), medium-term (12 weeks), and long-term (48 weeks) studies without significant adverse effects.

Is allulose safe according to clinical research?

Clinical research has consistently shown allulose to be safe and well-tolerated. Studies have found no significant differences in markers of liver and kidney function, major inflammation markers, or adverse effects compared to placebo. The FDA has granted allulose GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) status.

How is Jaca Sugar related to these clinical studies?

Jaca Sugar is 100% pure allulose—the same compound studied in clinical trials. Unlike products with additives or inferior quality, Jaca delivers pure allulose so you can experience the benefits demonstrated in scientific research. Jaca is backed by over 30 years of clinical data on rare sugars from Japan.

Complete List of Scientific References

1. Han Y, Kwon EY, Yu MK, et al. "A Preliminary Study for Evaluating the Dose-Dependent Effect of d-Allulose for Fat Mass Reduction in Adult Humans: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial." Nutrients. 2018;10(2):160. PMID: 29389878
2. Tanaka M, et al. "Allulose for the attenuation of postprandial blood glucose levels in healthy humans: A systematic review and meta-analysis." PLOS ONE. 2023;18(4):e0281150.
3. Iwasaki Y, et al. "GLP-1 release and vagal afferent activation mediate the beneficial metabolic and chronotherapeutic effects of D-allulose." Nature Communications. 2018;9:113.
4. Braunstein CR, et al. "Effects of D-allulose on glucose tolerance and insulin response to a standard oral sucrose load: results of a prospective, randomized, crossover study." BMJ Open Diabetes Research & Care. 2021.
5. Tanaka M, Kanasaki A, Hayashi N, et al. "Safety and efficacy of a 48-week long-term ingestion of D-Allulose in subjects with high LDL cholesterol levels." Fundamental Toxicological Sciences. 2020;7:15-31.
6. Hayakawa M, et al. "D-Allulose cooperates with glucagon-like peptide-1 and activates proopiomelanocortin neurons in the arcuate nucleus." Biochem Biophys Res Commun. 2022. PMID: 35561584
7. "Allulose in human diet: the knowns and the unknowns." British Journal of Nutrition. 2021.
8. "The Metabolic and Endocrine Effects of a 12-Week Allulose-Rich Diet." Nutrients. June 2024. PMC11207032
9. Noronha JC, et al. "The effect of small doses of fructose and allulose on postprandial glucose metabolism in type 2 diabetes." Diabetes Obes Metab. 2018;20:2361-2370.
10. Hossain A, et al. "Rare sugar d-psicose prevents progression and development of diabetes in T2DM model." Drug Design, Development and Therapy. 2015;9:525-535.