Are Zero-Sugar Foods Really a Better Option For You?
Find out if zero-sugar alternatives are more harmful than helpful…
By: Tyler Davis
With the rise in diet culture in the past decade, sugar substitutes are popular now more than ever. People often gravitate towards labels that say “low-sugar” or “zero sugar.” While these foods may not be filled with sugar, they are filled with harmful chemicals that can lead to diseases over time.
The most common sugar substitutes include sucralose, aspartame, Splenda, stevia, and monk fruit.
Over long periods of time, according to the Mayo Clinic, the daily use of these sweeteners can lead to a higher risk of stroke, heart disease, and death.
However, these harmful chemicals can also cause immediate effects as well. According to an article by the Mayo Clinic, these sugar substitutes can cause bloating, gas, and diarrhea.
Ironically, despite many people consuming these zero-sugar foods in an attempt to lose weight, in some cases, it can have the opposite effect. According to an article released by Harvard Health Publishing, a recent study found that participants who drank more than 21 diet drinks per week were two times more likely to become overweight.
Additionally, the well-known Diet Coke soda has come under wraps in recent years. The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the sweetener used in Diet Coke, aspartame, as possibly carcinogenic, meaning it has the possibility to cause cancer.
While these substitutes can cause harmful effects, they aren’t all bad. Take stevia and monk fruit sweeteners, for example; they come from plants and aren’t artificially processed, making them a healthier option.
In fact, some of the health benefits of these sugar substitutes include a lower risk of tooth decay and cavities, they don’t raise blood sugar levels, and they can help manage weight through a good diet and exercise routine.
So, continue to enjoy sugar-free foods and drinks, but just like any other food, everything is always better in moderation!