Are Artificial Sweeteners Safe?

When trying to reduce sugar intake people commonly turn to the use of artificial sweeteners or sugar substitutes. These intense sweeteners are mostly found in low-calorie products labelled ‘sugar free’ or ‘diet’ including:

-       Diet and sugar free soft drinks or cordials

-       Low sugar baked goods

-       Low sugar snacks

-       Chewing gum

Artificial sweeteners are used due to their intensely sweet qualities. This means a food will only need a fraction of the sweetener compared to amount of sugar to achieve the same sweetness, reducing calorie content.

Artificial sweeteners play a role in:

-       Weight control: drinks and foods containing artificial sweeteners are lower-calorie and can be of benefit when weight loss is the goal  

-       Regulation of Blood sugar levels in Diabetes: ‘sugar free’ alternatives will not raise blood glucose levels and can enable people with diabetes to enjoy these foods without the spike in blood sugars that would result from the consumption of a full sugar variety

Are they safe?

For a long time, the safety of artificial sweetener consumption has been questioned. Some studies including, The NutriNet Santé Study conducted in France, suggest artificial sweeteners may be linked to increased risk of certain cancers.  However, there are a range of studies suggesting sweeteners are safe in controlled quantities.

FSANZ (Food Standards Australia and New Zealand) is responsible for the regulation of food safety in Australia. Safety assessments are conducted on additives including, artificial sweeteners before are approved for use and consumption.

The Bottom Line:

 Artificial sweeteners are used in ‘sugar free’ and ‘diet’ food and drink products to reduce calorie content. They play a beneficial role in weight control, the management of diabetes and reducing sugar consumption. Some studies suggest there may be a link between artificial sweeteners and risk of cancer but ultimately, further research is necessary. Consuming small amounts of artificial sweeteners is okay but those having a large amount of ‘diet’ or ‘sugar free’ products each day should look at reducing their consumption.

FOR MORE INFORMATION COME AND VISIT US AT WARD NUTRITION.

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