New Study Shows Beverages with Low and No-Calorie Sweeteners Support Weight Loss

Brussels, 27 May 2014: A ground-breaking clinical trial published in the journal Obesity1 reaffirms that low and no-calorie sweetened (LNCS) beverages can help people lose weight when used consistently. The study is the first to directly compare the effects on weight loss of LNCS beverages with water, providing a new perspective on their role in a healthy diet.

The 12-week clinical study of 303 participants, led by researcher Prof James Hill, measured the effects of LNCS beverages on weight loss within a behavioural diet programme. It found that people who drank LNCS beverages lost 44 percent more weight – an average of 5.95kg over 12 weeks – than those in the water control group, who lost an average of 4.09kg over the same period. The group that drank LNCS beverages also reported feeling less hungry than the water control group.

These findings add to the large body of evidence2, 3, 4, 5, 6 demonstrating that LNCS are a useful option for individuals seeking to reduce or control their caloric intake while still enjoying sweet tastes. Complementary data presented at the ISA Conference in April 2014 by Prof Adam Drewnowski revealed that people who use LNCS also tend to eat a healthier, balanced diet and are more physically active.7

The ISA believes that LNCS beverages play a useful role in achieving and maintaining a balanced diet.

To read more about the study please follow this link to the author’s website.

By providing sweetness without the calories, low calorie sweetened options can make a useful contribution to a healthy, calorie-controlled diet. They are also kind to teeth.

  1. Peters JC et al, Obesity 2014; 22: 1415–1421.
  2. Bellisle F & Drewnowski A., Eur J Clin Nutr 2007; 61: 691–700.
  3. Mattes RD & Popkin BM., Am J Clin Nutr 2009; 89(1): 1–14.
  4. Mackenzie T, Brooks B, O’Connor G., Ann Epidemiol 2006; 16(9): 688–91.
  5. Raben A et al, Am J Clin Nutr 2002; 76(4): 721–9.
  6. de Ruyter JC et al, N Engl J Med 2012; 367: 1397–06.
  7. International Sweeteners Association (2014). Available by clicking here.