The World Health Organization (WHO) advises against using popular sugar substitutes if you are trying to lose weight.
After an extensive review of 283 studies, WHO advises that no long-term benefits in reducing body fat in adults and children are derived from using non-sugar sweeteners (NCC).
In addition, the review reveals the potential for unwanted side effects from long-term use of NSS including the increased risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
Instead of relying on sugar substitutes to help with weight loss, the WHO researchers suggest finding other ways to reduce sugar intake such as eating foods with naturally occurring sugars such as fruit and drinking more water and unsweetened beverages.
Sugar substitutes have no nutritional value and the list of these substitutes includes, aspartame, advantame, cyclamates, neotame, saccharin, sucralose, stevia and stevia derivatives. These sweetners can be found in a wide variety of pre-packaged foods and drinks or may be added to foods and drinks by consumers.
