Are you thinking of using a sugar substitute instead? Many people around the world would consider artificial sugar substitutes for one reason or another.
Some people think it’s healthier to sweeten foods and drinks. Others use it to manage chronic conditions such as insulin resistance. A recent study found a link between artificial sweeteners, cardiovascular disease, and a number of other conditions.
This link might interest you. Continue reading to find out more about the effects of artificial sweeteners on the human body.
What are Artificial Sweeteners?
Sugar is the main ingredient used to sweeten food. Some people are unable to eat sugar due to a variety of reasons.
These factors could include the desire to eat a healthier diet and chronic conditions such as high blood sugar or insulin resistance.
Synthetic sweeteners are becoming more popular as healthier alternatives to sugar. These artificial sweeteners are used to make food sweeter without using sugar.
You will find sweeteners in most grocery items, drinks, snacks, and foods that claim to be low-calorie or sugar-free.
There are many artificial sweeteners. There are many artificial sweeteners, but the most popular ones are sucralose and aspartame.
1. Sucralose
People use sucralose to reduce their sugar intake. Although it is called artificial sweetener, sucralose comes from natural sugar.
Consumers and companies prefer sucralose over other sweeteners due to the availability of many options on the market, artificial or not.
Chemically, Sucralose has a six hundred-fold sweeter sweetness than natural sugar. So, a little bit goes a long ways. It also has the best taste of all artificial sweeteners. It is also more affordable!
2. Aspartame
Consumers, dietitians and doctors have been divided on aspartame. Although it has been used extensively in drinks that claim to be low-calorie, small packets of this artificial sweetener are available to supplement food and beverages.
Aspartame’s sweetness is 200 times less than that of sugar, so it’s less powerful than sucralose. Because of its slightly bitter aftertaste, this sweetener is often mixed with sugar substitutes.
3. Acesulfame Potassium
Acesulfame potassium is another popular artificial sweetener that’s used for mass production of low-calorie or no-sugar goods. It’s similar to aspartame and 200 times sweeter that regular table sugar. So, a little goes far.
Artificial sweeteners and Cardiovascular Disease
Recent research published in The BMJ has found a link between artificial sweeteners intake and cardiovascular disease. This observational study included 103,000 French adults, with an average age 42 years. 37% of these adults had consumed artificial sweeteners.
The researchers concluded that artificial sweeteners consumption and cardiovascular problems are linked after a long period of observation. People who consume synthetic sweeteners have a 9% higher chance of developing these problems over the long-term.
The researchers mentioned that although it was an observational study, other factors could have contributed to the findings.
Are Artificial Sweeteners Healthy?
This is a debate that has been ongoing. People are looking for ways to reduce their sugar intake and still enjoy sweet treats. Artificial sweeteners are the most popular choice because they are affordable and easy to find.
Synthetic sugar substitutes can be dangerous. Although they may be safe to consume, there are still risks that we shouldn’t be taking.
Many products on the market today, including supplements and “healthy” options, use artificial sweeteners in order to make them taste good. When you are considering trying such products, make sure to read the labels. It’s good to know that Xendurance (r) products do not contain artificial sweeteners which could cause harm.
There are many healthy, natural sweeteners available on the market. Although they aren’t as inexpensive or as large as artificial sweeteners in production, these substances should be considered when searching for an alternative to sugar.
Natural Sweeteners and Alternatives to Table Sugar
1. Stevia
Stevia has been a popular sweetener alternative for doctors and health professionals in recent years. Stevia is a naturally occurring, plant-based sweetener available in many forms.
You can now get stevia in dried leaves or as a powder/granule, as well as as as an extract, thanks to modern manufacturing technology.
Stevia has many other benefits. It lowers your caloric intake. It also assists with blood sugar management . It also helps reduce your chances of developing cavities.
2. Yacon Syrup
Although it isn’t widely available on the market, you can still try yacon syrup as a healthier alternative to sugar. This sweetener is made from the yacon tree, an endemic plant in South America.
Yacon syrup offers many other benefits than its sweet taste. It is rich in soluble fibers that support the growth of good bacteria in your intestinal tract . It also lowers the likelihood of constipation.
Remember that too much of any product can cause problems. Too much yacon syrup can cause digestive problems.
3. Honey
Good ‘ol honey has become a popular choice for sugar. Although it may not be sugar-free and may contain naturally-occurring sweeteners, it is healthier than table sugar and has lower glycemic scores.
The honeybees’ hard work produces a golden liquid that contains some vitamins and minerals. It is also known to contain plant compounds with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and other properties.
Honey should only be used in moderation.
Look for healthy alternatives
There has been much debate about whether artificial sweeteners are safe. Studies showing negative effects such as the link between artificial sweetness and cardiovascular disease slowly reveal the true nature of these sugar substitutes.
Consumer products often use buzzwords such as “low-calorie,” “no-calorie,” or “no sugar” to appear healthier than other products. We as consumers must be aware of what we are putting in our bodies.
Why settle for synthetic sweeteners with numerous adverse effects when there are natural and healthier alternatives? You can read the label to find healthier sugar alternatives that you can add into your diet.
Tag: FITNESS and HEALTH AND WELLNESS
