2023-06-02 09:30:24
World Health Organization releases guideline on non-sugar sweeteners to reduce risk of non-communicable diseases – find out more!
Are you one of those who use sweeteners to cut calories in your diet and lose weight? If so, we have important news for you. Through a systematic review, the World Health Organization (WHO) advised against the use of sweeteners as a means of weight lossas they confer no long-term benefit in reducing body fat.
The results also suggest there may be adverse effects, such as an increased risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Read on for the new recommendations!
World Health Organization proposes new guidelines on sweeteners
In 2015, the World Health Organization released a statement calling on adults and children to reduce their daily intake of free sugars less than 10% of their total energy intake. Since then, the search for healthier alternatives has intensified.
One of those options is stevia and other sugar-free sweeteners. But do they really help?
The guide titled Use of non-sugar sweeteners: WHO guideline compiles the results of tests carried out in adults, children and pregnant women. However, it does not apply to patients with pre-existing diabetes.
In order to provide guidance on sweeteners marketed alone or in food and drink, a total of 283 studies were included, along with randomized controlled trials and observational studies.
Examination of the use of sugar-free sweeteners has generated significant debate regarding the possible risks of their consumption. Although some may see this as an alternative to reducing sugar intake and controlling weight, the World Health Organization has concluded that sweeteners have a low impact on body weight and body fat. On the other hand, it has also indicated that its use may be linked to an increased risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and long-term adult mortality.
The new guide aims to reach politicians, managers, non-governmental organizations, health professionals, scientists, researchers, educators and the food industry. Although sugar-free sweeteners may seem like an attractive alternative for weight loss, the results of the systematic review suggest otherwise.
Read also: How much sugar is recommended for children per day?
Sweeteners Could Have Adverse Health Effects
The entity in question highlights not only the lack of nutritional value of sugar substitutes, but also the importance of reducing the amount of sweets in our diet to improve health; especially from an early age. Published guidelines emphasize the need to avoid the most common non-nutritive sweeteners, such as the following:
- Stevia and derivatives
- Acesulfame K.
- Aspartame.
- Cyclamate.
- Neotame.
- Sucralose.
- Saccharine.
It is important to mention that toothpastes, skin creams, medicines and sugar alcohols were not included in the WHO publication.
Reducing the consumption of sweeteners is possible
After knowing the risks associated with the prolonged use of sugar-free sweeteners, it is important to mention that there are various alternatives to reduce their use. Keep reading to find out!
- Gradually reduce sugar consumption: to adapt the palate to less sweet flavors, you can start by gradually limiting the consumption of sugar in drinks and foods.
- Use fruits as natural substitutes: fruit can be an excellent natural substitute for sugar in desserts, drinks and other foods. These contain fructose, which is a natural type of sugar.
- Read food labels: many processed products contain hidden sweeteners. For this reason, it is essential to read labels to identify ingredients.
- Replace sodas with water: soft drinks are often high in sugar, so replacing them with water can significantly reduce your sweetener intake.
Read also: Honey or sugar: do you know which is better?
The World Health Organization aims to reduce the risk of non-communicable diseases worldwide and improve the quality of food. As part of that effort, he plans to release a series of healthy eating recommendations.
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