Sugar has long been considered the cause of many health problems, especially in terms of weight gain and diseases like diabetes. This is why many people have started using other sugar substitutes.

Artificial sweeteners: Safe alternative to sugar or sweet poison? Know the whole truth from the experts

Sugar has long been associated with several health problems, especially in terms of weight gain and diseases like diabetes. This is why many people have turned to other sugar substitutes (such as artificial sweeteners). These sweeteners claim to provide more sweetness with fewer calories, making people consider them a better option.

In such a situation, the question that arises in everyone's mind is whether these sugar options are really safe or if are there some hidden health risks behind them? Let's know in detail.

Types of artificial sweeteners

Aspartame: Aspartame is 200 times sweeter than sugar and is sold under brand names such as Sugar Free and Equal. Although it is recognized as safe by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the FDA, some studies have linked it to an increased risk of cancer.

Sucralose: Sucralose is 600 times sweeter than sugar and is sold under the name Splenda. According to a 2022 study, it may have a negative impact on intestinal health. However, more research is needed to confirm its link to cancer risks.

Saccharin: Saccharin is one of the oldest artificial sweeteners, 400 times sweeter than sugar. It was banned in the 1970s due to its cancer risk, but was later made available again with a warning.

Neotame and Advantame : These are both extremely sweet artificial sweeteners, with neotame being 8,000-12,000 times sweeter and Advantame being 20,000 times sweeter. Although no serious side effects have been found so far, more research is needed.

Natural alternatives: Stevia and monk fruit

Natural sweeteners like stevia and monk fruit are considered safer than artificial sweeteners. Stevia has been linked to digestive problems, while monk fruit is generally considered safe. However, excessive use of any sweetener can be harmful to health.

What precautions should be taken? According to celebrity nutritionist Sandhya Gugnani, limited and low use of artificial sweeteners can be safe. However, their excessive consumption can increase the risk of intestinal health, cancer and other health problems. Apart from this, excessive use of both sugar and artificial sweeteners should be avoided and attention should be paid to a balanced diet.