Researchers believe artificial sweeteners may do more harm than good.Many people across the globe that are health conscious opt for non-sugar sweeteners. However,a new study claims artificial sweeteners may be contributing to type 2 diabetes.
The team also found low-calorie sweeteners (LCS) could also cause people to gain weight rather than help them lose it. The study's findings were originally published in the journal Current Atherosclerosis Reports.
"There has been a 200 per cent increase in LCS usage among children and a 54 per cent increase among adults in the past 20 years," study researcher Peter Clifton from the University of South Australia told a news portal.
Multiple studies suggest these kinds of sweeteners could be harmful to our health. A study in the US that included 5158 adults found those who consumed artificial sweeteners in excess amounts gained more weight than those who did not use it.
"Consumers of artificial sweeteners do not reduce their overall intake of sugar. They use both sugar and low-calorie sweeteners and may psychologically feel they can indulge in their favourite foods," Clifton told a news portal. Adding, "Artificial sweeteners also change the gut bacteria which may lead to weight gain and risk of type 2 diabetes."
Artificially sweetened drinks have also been linked to premature death and cardiovascular disease. Researchers have yet to understand the reason for this link. "A better option than low-calorie sweeteners is to stick to a healthy diet, which includes plenty of whole grains, dairy, seafood, legumes, vegetables and fruits and plain water," Clifton told a news portal.
Another study found artificial sweeteners reportedly have a toxic effect on gut microbes. "We modified bioluminescent E. coli bacteria, which luminesce when they detect toxicants and act as a sensing model representative of the complex microbial system,"Professor Ariel Kushmaro, John A. Ungar Chair in Biotechnology in the Avram, told a news portal. Adding,"This is further evidence that consumption of artificial sweeteners adversely affects gut microbial activity which can cause a wide range of health issues."
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