New WHO Guidance Advises Against Using Sugar Substitutes
By Hira Waheed
16 May 2023
The World Health Organization (WHO) has released new guidance stating that the use of sugar substitutes does not contribute to long-term weight loss. The recommendations are based on a systematic review of available evidence, which found that non-sugar sweeteners (NSS) do not provide any significant benefits in reducing body fat in adults or children. This blog post will explore the findings of the review and discuss the implications for weight control and overall health.
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Non-Sugar Sweeteners and Weight Loss
According to the WHO's Department of Nutrition and Food Safety, replacing free sugars with non-sugar sweeteners does not aid in long-term weight control. Although a mild reduction in body weight was observed in the short term, it was not sustained.
The guidance applies to all individuals except those with preexisting diabetes, as the review did not include studies involving people with diabetes.
Side Effects
The review also highlighted potential negative effects associated with the long-term use of sugar substitutes. While the recommendation does not comment on safety, there is evidence suggesting a mildly increased risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. However, further research is needed to fully understand these associations.
Considering the Alternatives
Experts emphasize that reducing sugar intake remains crucial for weight control. Rather than relying on sugar substitutes, it is advisable to cut back on sugar-sweetened drinks and use natural alternatives like raw or lightly processed fruit as a source of sweetness. This approach encourages a more balanced and whole-food-based diet.
Study Findings and Observations
The review encompassed 283 studies, including both randomized controlled trials and observational studies. While randomized trials showed a low impact of non-sugar sweeteners on body weight and calorie intake compared to sugar, observational studies revealed a potential increased risk for type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, stroke, heart disease, and death from heart disease.
Nature of Sweeteners and Health Effects
The recommendation encompasses both low or no-calorie synthetic sweeteners and natural extracts. Stevia and monkfruit, considered newer sweeteners, have limited published research but are presumed to have a similar physiological mechanism as other sweeteners. The report notes that the inclusion of bulking sugars in some sweeteners might affect their sweetness and product applications.
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