Artificial sugar substitutes can have dangerous side effects
The effects of artificial sugar substitutes on your body can overshadow the benefits to your teeth
The harmful effects of sugar on your teeth have been well-known for some time, but did you know that artificial sugar substitutes can have even more detrimental effects on your overall health?
Aspartame, saccharin and other artificial sugar substitutes commonly found in “diet” and “low-calorie” foods and drinks may succeed in initially reducing your caloric intake. However, multiple studies have shown that consuming these ultra-sweet artificial sugar substitutes can actually have the opposite effect for many people.
In addition to weight gain, artificial sugar substitutes may produce negative side effects including:
Metabolic syndrome
Hypertension and cardiovascular disease
Type 2 diabetes
Headaches
Heart palpitations
Diarrhea
If the drinks and foods you consume contain artificial sugar substitutes, you may notice a tendency to overeat because you “saved” calories with your diet soda or didn’t satisfy your craving for something sweet. Studies show you’re not alone in this behavior.
Artificial sugar substitutes may not help reduce long-term weight gain
The San Antonio Heart Study looked at men and women over an eight-year period and compared those who consumed diet beverages with artificial sugar substitutes and those who did not drink them. The study found evidence that weight gain and obesity were significantly higher for the study participants who consumed the diet drinks.
While no single study has determined that consuming artificial sugar substitutes is definitely harmful to your health, collectively many studies suggest that consuming artificial sugar substitutes is at least as harmful to your health as sugar.
Look at the label next time you choose a diet drink or food. There are several healthier, natural options without chemicals or sugar that can satisfy your desire for a sweet taste:
Erythritol
Xylitol
Stevia
Yacon
Regular dental checkups and cleanings are very important in the fight against sugary drinks and tooth decay. Contact Janssen Dental Clinic at 920-983-8383 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Craig and his team.
About Janssen Dental Clinic in Green Bay, Wisconsin
Janssen Dental Clinic is led by Dr. Craig Janssen, a third-generation dentist serving patients in Green Bay, Wisconsin, and the surrounding area. Dr. Craig and his staff specialize in reducing the fear and anxiety that people of all ages feel over going to the dentist, with services ranging from routine cleanings to restorative and cosmetic procedures. Call (920) 983-8383 to schedule an appointment. New patients are always welcome.