WHO: Using non-sugar sweeteners for weight control is dangerous
Long-term use of NSS can increase the risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and mortality in adults.
Artificial sweeteners and other sugar substitutes gained popularity due to claims that they are healthier than consuming sugar. This is after studies showed that consuming too much sugar can lead to weight gain over time.
However, in a newly-released guideline by the World Health Organisation, it has been found that sweeteners do not necessarily assist in controlling weight gain.
"Replacing free sugars with NSS does not help with weight control in the long term," states the World Health Organisation.
To lose weight, the organisation says it is better to eat sugar in moderation.
"People need to consider other ways to reduce free sugars intake, such as consuming food with naturally occurring sugars, like fruit, or unsweetened food and beverages,” says Francesco Branca, WHO Director for Nutrition and Food Safety.
"The only time sugar can be dangerous to one's health is when it's taken above the recommended percentage," says Dietitian Sylven Masoga.
In terms of sugar intake, Masoga says people should be guided by their permitted total carbohydrate intake because sugar is also considered a carbohydrate.
Not only are NSS not helpful when it comes to weight loss, but they can have potential health dangers.
'Results of the review also suggest that there may be potential undesirable effects from long-term use of NSS, such as an increased risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and mortality in adult,' states the report.
The WHO also states that NSS have no nutritional value.
"NSS are not essential dietary factors and have no nutritional value. People should reduce the sweetness of the diet altogether, starting early in life, to improve their health."
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