WHO says artificial sweeteners don’t work for weight loss

According to research reviewed by the World Health Organization (WHO) team, No sweetener provides scientific evidence proving long-term benefits. Mainly, in relation to weight control or to reduce the likelihood of diseases such as diabetes and heart problems.

The sweetener recommendation only applies to people who have already been diagnosed with some form of diabetes.

The new WHO warning was based on a systematic review of studies conducted in recent months designed to look for evidence of the benefit of using artificial sweeteners for weight control and disease prevention. In total, they relied on more than 190 studies, including randomized trials, controlled trials, and other types of observations, to understand the sweeteners’ effects.

Studies have included sweeteners such as cyclamates, neotame, saccharin, sucralose, stevia and other stevia derivatives. That is, all synthetic, natural or modified sweeteners that are not classified as sugars.

The analysis also highlights that it may be possible. Undesirable effects in people who use sweeteners for a long timefor example, an increased risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The use of sweeteners is only indicated for people with pre-existing diabetes.

“Replacing free sugars with NSS does not help with long-term weight management. People should consider other ways to reduce their free sugar intake, such as by consuming foods containing natural sugars such as fruit or sugar-free foods and beverages. NSS are not essential dietary factors,” said Francesco Branca, WHO Director of Nutrition and Food Safety. and has no nutritional value.

How to replace sweetener?

To replace sweeteners, it is recommended to choose products containing low-calorie sugars and sugar alcohols, such as erythritol and xylitol. In the case of coffee, it is possible to add a pinch of salt to reduce the bitterness of the drink and thus avoid sugar. In general, WHO recommends a maximum of 10% of daily energy intake from sugar equivalent to 50 grams or ten teaspoons of sugar.

The new WHO guideline does not apply to the use of hygiene products containing sweeteners, such as skin cream, toothpaste, among others. The recommendation is part of WHO international guidelines aimed at establishing healthy eating habits and reducing the risk of NCDs.