Sugar Substitutes May Not Be As Bad for You As Many Think, Study Finds
Summary
A new review of studies found that replacing sugar with low-calorie sweeteners does not harm people’s ability to control their weight or affect heart and metabolic health. The studies also showed that these sweeteners do not increase hunger or cravings for sweet foods.Key Facts
- Researchers from universities in Europe analyzed data from five studies on sugar substitutes.
- Studies compared effects of low-calorie sweeteners to sugar or water on weight, appetite, and health markers.
- Participants using sweeteners maintained weight loss as well as or better than those avoiding them.
- Sweetener use did not raise blood sugar, insulin, cholesterol, or blood pressure levels.
- No increase in hunger or stronger sweet cravings was linked to sweetener consumption.
- Some studies noted small changes in gut bacteria, but with no negative health effects.
- The review found that keeping sweetness while cutting calories may help people stick to weight-loss diets.
- Earlier studies showed mixed results, likely due to differences in research methods.
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