Isn't it common for us to reduce the sugar intake as an initial step toward weight loss? Many people choose sucralose, an artificial sweetener, to aid in their weight loss journey. However, is sucralose truly a magic bullet for weight loss, or are there any hidden dangers associated with it? We spoke to our expert Dr Muffazal Lakdawala, Director, Minimal Access Surgical Science and General Surgery, Sir HN Reliance Hospital, Gurugram, who explained if artificial sweeteners are good for weight loss.
According to the Journal of Lipid and Atherosclerosis, a diet high in added sugars might negatively impact your metabolism and general health.
As per the Frontiers in Nutrition, there are two categories of sweeteners: artificial and natural. Depending on whether they contain calories or not, artificial sweeteners are further divided into nutritive and non-nutritive categories. Non-nutritive artificial sweeteners consist of several chemical compounds that have a sweetness level between 30-13,000 times that of sucrose.
What Is Sucralose?
“Sucralose, a chlorinated sucrose derivative derived from sugar, has become a popular artificial sweetener in the quest for weight loss. However, its origin as an insecticide compound raises questions about its safety for human consumption”, said Dr Lakdawala.
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Side Effects Of Sucralose
“The process of making sucralose involves replacing sugar's hydrogen-oxygen groups with chlorine atoms, intensifying its sweetness. Despite its introduction as a ‘natural sugar substitute’, studies suggest potential risks associated with sucralose consumption”, added Dr Lakdawala.
“Contrary to the belief that sucralose aids weight loss, epidemiological studies and animal lab experiments indicate a link between artificial sweeteners and weight gain. Additionally, the use of such sweeteners may elevate the risk of metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases”, highlighted Dr Lakdawala.
A notable 18-month trial published in the New England Journal of Medicine involved 641 children randomly assigned to consume either a no-calorie sweetened or sugar-sweetened beverage daily. While the sugar-sweetened group consumed significantly more calories, the total weight gain over the period was only one kilogram greater. The perplexing results raise doubts about sucralose's efficacy in weight management.
Another study with adolescents, supplied with artificially sweetened beverages to reduce sugar consumption, showed no consistent reduction in weight gain over two years. These findings question the effectiveness of sucralose for weight loss and suggest that it may not be a reliable method for those watching their calorie intake.
Dr Lakdawala added, “Reports of adverse reactions, including headaches and allergic responses, raise concerns about sucralose and products containing sucralose. Recent research also highlights potential negative impacts on gut health and the induction of metabolic syndrome.”
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What You Should Know
“If you rely on sucralose for its no-calorie option in your weight loss journey, consider the evidence that suggests it may not be as effective as anticipated. Natural sweeteners like raw honey and stevia, lower in calories, present choices for those seeking healthier options”, said Dr Lakdawala.
Bottomline
Dr Lakdawala concluded, “Sucralose's history as an insecticide and its potential health risks underscore the importance of informed choices. While it may not directly cause weight gain, studies indicate sucralose's limited effectiveness in promoting weight loss. Choosing natural alternatives might be a wiser approach for those aiming to achieve a healthier lifestyle.”
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your expert before making any dietary changes, especially if you are dealing with any health issues.]