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The link between artificial sugars and weight loss (Image via freepik/stockking)

Research reveals surprising facts about artificial sugars and weight loss efforts

If you're looking to cut down on sugar and manage your weight, you may have considered using artificial sugars or sugar substitutes as a healthier alternative.

However, recent guidelines from the World Health Organization (WHO) suggest otherwise. In this article, we explore the impact of artificial sugars on weight loss and discuss healthier alternatives.

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Can artificial sugars help you lose weight?

Can sugar subsitutes help you lose weight? (Image via Freepik/Jcomp)
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Many popular sugar substitutes like Splenda, Equal and Stevia are FDA-approved and commonly used as alternatives to real sugar. However, WHO warns against relying on artificial sweeteners for long-term weight loss.

Studies have shown that replacing sugar with substitutes does not guarantee sustained weight control. Therefore, it's essential to consider other ways to reduce sugar intake and make healthier dietary choices.

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Concerns about artificial sugars

WHO director for nutrition and food safety, Francesco Branca, emphasizes that artificial sweeteners have no nutritional value and are not essential dietary factors. Instead, people should focus on reducing overall sweetness in their diet from an early age to improve their health.

Overuse of sugar substitutes can pose potential long-term health risks, although they're marketed as healthier alternatives.

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Healthier sugar subsitutes to try

Sugar subsitutes that are healthier than regular sugar (Image via Freepik/Stockking)
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Rather than relying on artificial sweeteners, consider consuming foods and beverages with naturally occurring sugars, like fruits and unsweetened options.

By using raw or lightly processed fruit as a source of sweetness, you can satisfy your cravings while reducing your sugar intake.


Role of artificial sugars in weight loss

A review of 283 studies revealed that sugar substitutes have a minor impact on reducing bodyweight and calorie intake compared to real sugar.

Consistent use of artificial sweeteners over extended periods may even increase risk of health issues like heart disease and Type 2 diabetes, as well as mortality in adults.

It's crucial to be cautious and consider overall impact on health when incorporating sugar substitutes in your diet.


Importance of moderation

Whether you choose to use artificial sweeteners or real sugar, nutrition experts recommend limiting overall intake of sweets for optimal health. Moderation is key, and maintaining a balanced diet that includes whole foods is essential for overall well-being.

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While artificial sugars and sugar substitutes may seem like a tempting option for weight management, it's important to recognize their limitations.

WHO guidelines discourage relying solely on sugar substitutes for long-term weight loss, emphasizing need for healthier dietary choices and reducing overall sweetness in diet.

Remember that a well-rounded, balanced approach to nutrition is crucial for overall health and weight management.

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Edited by
Bhargav
 
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