Ew! Sweetener blamed for gummy side effects - The Daily Universe (2024)

FAQs

What artificial sweeteners should I avoid? ›

Stevia and monk fruit are both naturally derived from plants and some people feel they have a flavor very similar to regular sugar. The FDA says these sweeteners are “generally regarded as safe,” which means they are safe to use for their intended purpose.

Some research on long-term, daily use of artificial sweeteners suggests a link to a higher risk of stroke, heart disease and death overall. But other things people do, or healthy habits that people don't do, may be the cause of the higher risk.

Origins. The controversy over aspartame safety originated in perceived irregularities in the aspartame approval process during the 1970s and early 1980s, including allegations of a revolving door relationship between regulators and industry and claims that aspartame producer G.D.

Stevia was initially banned because some highly alarming early studies suggested that the sweetener might be linked to cancer. There were also other concerns about the sweet compounds in stevia leaves, known as steviol glycosides.

You can opt for coconut sugar, honey, maple syrup, and agave nectar, which are some good and healthy options. Another good option is shakkar, an unprocessed sugar rich in nutrients like zinc, iron, potassium, and magnesium. You can also use jaggery to sweeten up your desserts and beverages.

Cyclamate remains banned in the United States and South Korea.

Following the March 2024 FDA approval, the sweet protein may soon be the new big sugar substitute in the US. As one report published April 2024 argues, brazzein may be a promising sugar alternative that offers sweetness without the caloric burden.

Your taste buds will stop getting tricked.

"We lose our taste for natural sweetness. Because of that we need heavy levels of sweetness to satisfy that sweet tooth." Naturally sweet foods, such as fruit, lose their appeal and savory foods, such as vegetables, become unpalatable.

Although research is still ongoing, aspartame is often accused of contributing to many long-term health concerns. In fact, the International Agency for Research on Cancer has classified aspartame as a Group 2B carcinogen, meaning it can potentially cause cancer in humans.

What sweetener is linked to health risk? ›

Specifically, aspartame consumption was associated with an increased risk of cerebrovascular events, while acesulfame potassium and sucralose were linked to a heightened risk of coronary heart disease.

The World Health Organization (WHO) released a new guideline on non-sugar sweeteners (NSS)—often referred to as artificial or low-calorie sweeteners—that advises against use of NSS to control body weight or reduce the risk of noncommunicable diseases.

We sweeten co*ke Zero Sugar in our bottles and cans with a blend of aspartame and acesulfame potassium (or Ace-K). Together, they create a great taste with zero sugar and zero calories. Yes. Diet co*ke in our bottles and cans is sweetened with aspartame.

A recent study suggests that a chemical, sucralose-6-acetate, found in sucralose, causes DNA damage.

Splenda, or sucralose, is an artificial sweetener that people may use instead of sugar. While it may provide a safe alternative, growing evidence links it to side effects such as weight gain and digestive problems.

Both are generally considered safe to use, yet research on their long-term health effects is ongoing. While no evidence suggests that either is unsafe, it appears that purified stevia is associated with the fewest concerns. When choosing between the two, consider their best uses and enjoy them in moderation.