Scientists Have Found No Benefit From Sugar Substitutes

Scientists have found no benefit from sugar substitutes

A new review of research on sugar substitutes (aspartame, stevia, etc.) has not provided conclusive evidence that they are in any way beneficial to health. No harm was found from them either.

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A new review of research on sugar substitutes (aspartame, stevia, etc.) has not provided conclusive evidence that they are in any way beneficial to health. And although no harm was found from them, the authors do not exclude that over time it may be found.

The results of the study, commissioned by WHO, were published on January 2 in the British Medical Journal (BMJ).

Scientists analyzed available research on the effects of artificial sweeteners on body weight, blood sugar, oral health, cancer and cardiovascular disease risk, mood and consumer behavior.

Some small studies have suggested that sugar-free sweeteners may slightly improve body mass index (BMI) and blood sugar levels. Data from 318 participants in four randomized controlled trials showed that people who consumed sugar substitutes consumed 254 fewer calories daily than those who consumed sugar. In addition, a study of overweight and obese people who were not trying to lose weight found that artificial sweeteners were associated with a loss of almost 4.5 kg. weight.

But artificial sweeteners didn't seem to work for overweight and obese people (including children) who were actually trying to lose weight.

In two small studies, there was a very modest improvement in blood sugar levels associated with the use of sugar substitutes.

One limitation of this review is that the researchers excluded studies that did not name the sugar substitute being tested. Another problem was that scientists pooled studies comparing artificial sweeteners to non-nutritive placebos and comparing them to sugar.

Overall, however, this review of research shows that sugar substitutes alone do not improve health. However, there may be some benefits for those who consume too much sugar in sugary drinks, as non-nutritive sugar substitutes would probably be less harmful to health, although plain mineral water would be best.