A groundbreaking study has shattered misconceptions about sweeteners, showing that they do not increase appetite and offer health benefits by reducing blood sugar levels. Led by the University of Leeds in collaboration with The Rhône-Alpes Research Center for Human Nutrition, this research challenges previous assumptions and provides valuable insights into the role of sweeteners in our diet.
DEBUNKING MYTHS: SWEETENERS VS. APPETITE
Contrary to popular belief, replacing sugar with artificial and natural sweeteners in foods does not heighten hunger. The double-blind randomized controlled trial demonstrated that consuming sweetener-containing foods elicited similar appetite sensations and hormone responses as sugary foods. Moreover, it unveiled the added benefit of lowering blood sugar levels, particularly crucial for individuals at risk of type 2 diabetes.
A SCIENTIFIC BREAKTHROUGH: THE GOLD STANDARD OF EVIDENCE
This study sets a new standard in scientific investigation, offering robust evidence supporting the use of sweeteners without adverse effects on appetite. By meeting the gold standard level of proof, it dispels doubts surrounding sweeteners’ impact on appetite and underscores their role in reducing sugar intake.
THE SWEET CONSORTIUM: ADVANCING PUBLIC HEALTH
This research is part of the SWEET consortium, comprising 29 European partners dedicated to evaluating the long-term benefits and potential risks of sweeteners. Funded by Horizon Europe, the consortium aims to promote public health, combat obesity, and ensure sustainability in food consumption.
INSIGHTS FROM THE EXPERTS
Lead author Catherine Gibbons emphasizes the importance of reducing sugar consumption to combat obesity-related diseases like type 2 diabetes. By substituting sugars with sweeteners, individuals can adhere to low-sugar diets without sacrificing taste or succumbing to sweet cravings.
Principal investigator Graham Finlayson highlights the critical role of sweeteners in weight and blood sugar control. Despite negative attention, this study provides crucial evidence supporting their day-to-day use, dispelling concerns about their safety.
UNPRECEDENTED STUDY DESIGN: EXAMINING SWEETENERS’ IMPACT
Unlike previous studies, which primarily focused on beverages, this trial evaluated the effects of sweeteners using biscuits as the vehicle. It included participants with overweight or obesity, offering insights into a diverse population group often overlooked in research.
PROMISING RESULTS: SWEETENERS AND HEALTH
Participants consuming biscuits containing sweeteners experienced no differences in appetite or hormone responses compared to sugar. However, they exhibited reduced insulin and blood sugar levels, highlighting the potential health benefits of sweetener consumption.
EMPOWERING HEALTH CHOICES
Professor Anne Raben, joint co-coordinator of the SWEET project, affirms the role of sweeteners in managing appetite, energy, and weight. These findings endorse sweeteners as a valuable tool for reducing added sugar intake without triggering compensatory increases in appetite or energy consumption.
