Artificial Sweeteners also known as sugar substitutes, are food additives that are produced artificially and are intended to provide a sweet taste without adding any calories. They are highly used by people keen on losing weight. The use of artificial sweeteners is controversial.
The American Heart Association (AHA) and American Diabetes Association (ADA) proclaims no harm to the body in using artificial sweeteners in place of sugar.
There are many types of artificial sweeteners available, but Sucralose is the most commonly used. The other artificial sweeteners are Aspartame, Acesulfame, Saccharin, and Neotame. However, the response of the human body and brain to these sweeteners is complex.
Today, artificial sweeteners are found in a variety of food and beverages. The addition of these sweeteners to a product earns them a nametag of “diet” or “sugar-free”. Some of the products in which artificial sweeteners is used are soft drinks, ice creams, chewing gums, etc.
pros and cons of artificial sweeteners
Artificial sweeteners carry their own advantages and disadvantages. Some of them are:-
ADVANTAGES
- May help in weight loss
Reducing calorie intake by using artificial sweeteners can be really helpful in losing weight. People with a great love for sweet dishes can consume their meals and sweet food craving by using these artificial sweeteners.
- Good for diabetic patients
Artificial sweeteners have a low impact on the blood sugar. This is the reason they are widely used by people suffering from diabetes. Even pregnant women can use them, but only in moderation.
DISADVANTAGES
- Lack of nutritional value
Artificial sweeteners are produced artificially and often lack nutritional value. This is the reason some nutritionist do not advise consuming diet soda.
- Few are approved by FDA
The FDA has not approved every artificial sweetener product available in the market. It is advised to consume a product only if it is properly checked and approved.
- Can lead to health risks.
Artificial sweeteners run a high risk of diseases and even include the possibility of cancer. This is mainly because they are produced artificially using chemicals.
There are various researched and experiments took place since the invention of as but its health quotient is often a hot topic among nutritionists.
Natural sweeteners like honey, jaggery, dates, etc are great alternatives for sugar. Natural sweeteners are high in nutritional value and are not produced using harmful chemicals. Jaggery is loaded with antioxidants and minerals like zinc and selenium which prevent damage to the body. Natural sweeteners do not have side effects on the body.
