Increasingly more consumers are swapping sugar for artificial sweeteners in an attempt to eat healthier.
Some see it as a way to cut calories, while others want to avoid theside effects of sugar.
Unfortunately, artificial sweeteners might not be as safe as you think, especially when used regularly.
As the researchers note,these drinksare unlikely to prevent diabetes.
Over time, they may actually increase diabetes risk.
These findings are subject to debate, though.
TheFDAstates that there’s not enough evidence to confirm the potential risks of aspartame and other sugar substitutes.
So, what happens to your body when you eat artificial sweeteners?
Let’s find out.
Its effects wear off within hours, so you reach for another piece of chocolate.
Simply put, sugar has addictive effects and can lead to overeating, explainsLive Science.
Artificial sweeteners have similar effects, according toFrontiers for Young Minds.
These additives partially activate the brain’s reward system andalter your taste buds, increasing hunger and sugar cravings.
Since they don’t fully activate the reward pathways, they cause less pleasure than sugary foods.
As a result, you may end up overeating or choosing higher-calorie foods to feel satisfied.
The same source reports that cutting out sugar and artificial sweeteners can diminish cravings within a week.
Sugar substitutesmay also alter satiety signals to the brain.
Sucralose, for example, activates the sweet taste receptors, causing insulin spikes.
In animal studies, acesulfame potassium increased insulin levels by up to 210%.
Aspartame doesn’t seem to have this effect.
Most studies have conflicting results, but researchers seem to agree thatsugar substitutes pose health risks.
Like with everything else, moderation is key.
An occasionaldiet sodaor sugar-free chocolate won’t cause any harm.
What you eat and drink, as well as your lifestyle habits, can help or harmyour gut bacteria.
Sugar substitutes may encourage the growth of “bad” gut bacteria, leaving your body vulnerable to disease.
These food additives might also alter gut microbial diversity, cause leaky gut, and trigger inflammation.
Artificial sweeteners are processed differently than sugar and other natural foods, notes theCanadian Society of Gastrointestinal Research.
After ingestion, they remain intact through the GI tract and may alter the gut flora.
These compounds may also cause bloating, gas, diarrhea, anddigestive discomfort.
