The controversial effects of low-calorie sweeteners

Abstract

Substantial reviews of the most recent evidence report a strong relationship between the consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages and adverse health effects, such as the prevalence of obesity and metabolic diseases. Various public policies were recently undertaken by many countries in the hope of reducing sugar-sweetened beverage consumption amongst their population. This has led the food industries to promote low-calorie sweeteners (sugar substitutes) as a healthy alternative that would limit caloric intake without compromising the sweet taste of food and beverages. However, is the use of low-calorie sweeteners as a means of limiting or reducing energy intake without consequences for our health? This review aims to discuss the effects of low-calorie sweeteners consumption on health and to elucidate whether their use should be recommended by health professionals to their patients as part of weight management.