So, they boast holding zero-calories and being beneficial for weight loss....but are artificial sweeteners really that safe?
The trouble with these make-shift sugar doubles is that the body cannot recognize them. Without the capability to know what to do with a food item, the body reacts negatively. How you might ask?
The body senses something sweet coming in. While typically this would mean sugar was being consumed, the body readies itself for a sugar high. In response to that, the pancreas sends out insulin to lower blood sugar. The problem is, no such sugar high was experiences. Therefore, the consumer now has a low blood sugar level. This leads to further sugar cravings and can actually cause increased eating and snacking later.
Another negative side to artificial sweeteners and products made with them, is that they cause a great deal of gastrointestinal stress when consumed in excess. They have also been linked to headaches and migraines.
Not all sweeteners are created equal. No pun intended. Some are better than others and that is honestly a matter of opinion. While I personal stick to natural sugar when I can, I do use Stevia (or Truvia) from time to time. This is a sweetener made from a plant native to South America. While this sweetener also contributes zero-calories, it is technically less processed and in my opinion, healthier.
When to use artificial sweeteners largely depends on your medical conditions. If you are Diabetic, then using these sweeteners can positively impact you by preventing blood sugar spikes from natural sugars. Otherwise, I suggest sticking to the real thing or a less-processed alternative like Stevia.
Melissa Stoner R.D., C.P.T.
Registered Dietitian
Certified Personal Trainer
Professional Chef
The trouble with these make-shift sugar doubles is that the body cannot recognize them. Without the capability to know what to do with a food item, the body reacts negatively. How you might ask?
The body senses something sweet coming in. While typically this would mean sugar was being consumed, the body readies itself for a sugar high. In response to that, the pancreas sends out insulin to lower blood sugar. The problem is, no such sugar high was experiences. Therefore, the consumer now has a low blood sugar level. This leads to further sugar cravings and can actually cause increased eating and snacking later.
Another negative side to artificial sweeteners and products made with them, is that they cause a great deal of gastrointestinal stress when consumed in excess. They have also been linked to headaches and migraines.
Not all sweeteners are created equal. No pun intended. Some are better than others and that is honestly a matter of opinion. While I personal stick to natural sugar when I can, I do use Stevia (or Truvia) from time to time. This is a sweetener made from a plant native to South America. While this sweetener also contributes zero-calories, it is technically less processed and in my opinion, healthier.
When to use artificial sweeteners largely depends on your medical conditions. If you are Diabetic, then using these sweeteners can positively impact you by preventing blood sugar spikes from natural sugars. Otherwise, I suggest sticking to the real thing or a less-processed alternative like Stevia.
Melissa Stoner R.D., C.P.T.
Registered Dietitian
Certified Personal Trainer
Professional Chef