Addressing reverse causality in observational research is critical to establish reliable associations between low/no calorie sweeteners and cardiometabolic health
Results of a systematic review and meta-analysis of prospective cohort studies that model intake of sweeteners as change or substitutions to mitigate the influence of reverse causality Highlights: Reverse causality is a major source of bias in observational studies investigating associations between low/no calorie sweeteners and health outcomes By including prospective cohort studies that […]
The WHO recommendation for non-sugar sweeteners use is not supported by the collective evidence
A critical appraisal of the draft WHO guideline on use of non-sugar sweeteners Highlights Evidence from higher quality research reviewed recently by WHO supports the useful role of low/no calorie sweeteners in sugar and energy reduction and, in turn, in weight loss, despite a draft recommendation today suggesting against their use in weight control […]
Low/no calorie sweeteners can help in calorie reduction and weight loss, according to a new WHO-supported review
A critical appraisal of the systematic review by Rios-Leyvraz and Montez on health effects of low/no calorie sweeteners Highlights Results of the new WHO-supported study confirm that low/no calorie sweeteners may be effective at assisting with weight loss, when used in place of sugars resulting in calorie reduction Evidence from controlled clinical trials supports no […]
New study shows helpful role of substituting sugary drinks with low/no calorie sweetened beverages for people living with overweight or obesity
Outcomes of a systematic review and network meta-analysis of clinical trials conducted by the Diabetes and Nutrition Study Group of the European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD) to inform the EASD Clinical Practice Guidelines for Nutrition Therapy Highlights A new systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) confirms a beneficial role […]
Science news on low/no calorie sweeteners (Part B): 2021 scientific events in review
Highlights: Data from newly published studies conducted in Argentina, Chile, and Peru show that the intake levels of common low/no calorie sweeteners are below their respective Acceptable Daily Intakes (ADIs). Scientific experts suggest that the collective evidence supports the assertion that when used in place of sugar, low/no calorie sweeteners may help in weight management. […]
Science news on low/no calorie sweeteners (Part A): 2021 in review
Highlights: New studies and reports published in 2021 confirm the safety and role of low/no calorie sweeteners in sugar and calorie reduction, which in turn can help in weight management. The use of low/no calorie sweeteners in place of sucrose may also have a promising prospect in caries management, according to the authors of a […]
Understanding the role of sweetness in the diet and in health
Measuring sweetness of total diet in future research would help advance evidence-based dietary recommendations Highlights Current evidence does not support the hypothesis that reducing exposure to sweet taste may reduce “sweet tooth” and, in turn, the intake of added sugars and calories. In a perspective, experts call for agreement on an optimal approach for measuring […]
2020 year in review: What did we learn from new research on low/no calorie sweeteners?
Highlights: There is expert consensus that excessive intake of sugars should be reduced to lower the risk and prevalence of obesity, and low/no calorie sweeteners are one of the strategies to help achieve sugar reduction. Two large reviews published in 2020 confirm that low/no calorie sweeteners are useful in weight loss, when replacing sugars in […]
New study adds clarity to the role low/no calorie sweeteners can play in weight loss
Highlights A new big study confirms a useful role for low/no calorie sweeteners in weight management, when used in place of sugar, and adds further clarity as to when their use brings value. Studies comparing low/no calorie sweeteners with water or placebo find no difference on impact on body weight. This proves that sugar substitutes […]
Scientific evidence to inform guidelines: The role of sweeteners in diet and health
Key outcomes of the Scientific Report of the 2020 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee in the U.S. Highlights: The typical American diet results in overconsumption of fats, sodium and added sugars, while intakes of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are lower than recommended. Excess intake of added sugars should be reduced but focus should also be […]