Does Using Sweeteners Instead of Sugar Help with Weight Loss?

Another frequently asked question has an answer! According to research in the Canadian Medical Association Journal, using sweeteners instead of sugar does not help weight loss; contrary to belief, it may cause both weight gain and various health problems.

Consumption of natural or artificial sweeteners such as aspartame, stevioside and sucralose is widespread and increasing. Although not certain, these nonnutritive sweeteners are thought to harm metabolism and affect intestinal flora and appetite.

The study analyzed research involving approximately 400.000 people across 37 studies on the health effects of regular, prolonged sweetener consumption. Together these investigations lasted more than 10 years.

Results found that sweeteners replacing sugar did not help weight loss and could even cause weight gain, obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease and other health problems. How do they cause this?

Even with zero sugar in foods (especially drinks), sweeteners may not help weight loss because they may trigger food addiction . These products thus reinforce taste sensation and consequently the desire to eat more.

In conclusion, sweeteners chosen by millions because sugar causes weight gain have, contrary to belief, proved unhelpful for weight control and capable of causing health problems. Fruit can satisfy sweet cravings, and we should remember that the basic principles of weight loss are eating less and adopting an active lifestyle.