High amounts of artificial sweeteners may increase risk for diabetes
A small Australian study suggested that consuming high amounts of artificial sweeteners might affect how the body responds to sugar — and might raise a person’s risk of diabetes.
Lead author Richard Young, an associate professor at the University of Adelaide’s medical school, said, “This study supports the concept that artificial sweeteners could reduce the body’s control of blood sugar levels.
“High sweetener intake might lead hampered’ in heavy users of artificial sweeteners.
“This study reaffirms that artificial sweeteners can still affect your body’s response to glucose.”
In the study, 27 healthy people were randomly picked to consume capsules containing either artificial sweeteners — either sucralose or acesulfame-k — or a ‘dummy’ placebo.
The capsules were taken three times a day before meals for two weeks. The
Dana Angelo White, a registered dietitian who teaches at Quinnipiac University in Hamden, Conn, said, “Artificial sugars are lower in calories but can still be an unhealthy addition to the diet.
“Just like eating too much sugar, too much fake sugar can also lead to health problems.
“The bigger concern seems to be the long-term, large-quantity consumption, so, just like nutrition experts are always saying, moderation is key.”
For his part, Courgi said that sometimes the use of ‘low-cal’ sweeteners simply encourages other unhealthy eating behaviors.
“These artificial sweeteners may offer less sugar than other products, but they are not a free pass to mass consumption.
“Consumers should use discretion with these products because of the risk of diabetes.”
Experts note that findings presented at medical meetings are typically considered preliminary until published in a peer-reviewed journal.
The Calorie Control Council, which represents the makers of artificial sweeteners, did not reply to a Healthday request for comment.