Optimal Health Medical Blog

The Blog of Dr. Henry Sobo

The Truth About Artificial Sugar

As research continues to uncover the dangerous health consequences of eating too much sugar, the use of artificial sugars has risen steadily. It’s easy to find cakes make entirely with Splenda, and every restaurant offers little pink and blue packets of artificial alternatives.

Cutting back on sugar is certainly an important goal, but switching to artificial sweeteners isn’t any better for your health. The truth is, artificial sweeteners have dangers lurking beneath the surface, including links to weight gain, diabetes, heart disease, and a number of other health risks. Here’s what you need to know before you go to sweeten your next cup of coffee.

The Science Behind the Dangers of Artificial Sweeteners

Artificial sweeteners are tempting because they don’t contain any calories but still provide potent sweetness. However, these non-nutritive sweeteners don’t create a sense of fullness or satisfaction. Even worse, they simultaneously retrain your taste buds to require more and more sweetness. If you use artificial sweeteners over a long period of time, you are more likely to become addicted to sweet treats and gain weight.

Artificial sweeteners are also dangerous due to the effects they have on your body systems. Research is still catching up, but millions of people who have cut artificial sugars out of their diets report the improvement of many health problems including migraines, depression, IBS, weight gain, and more.

The Worst of the Worst

There are many artificial sweeteners currently on the market, and many of them are even added to seemingly healthier food options like yogurt, vitamins, and breakfast cereal. The worst of the worst culprits include aspartame (found in Equal and NutraSweet), sucralose (found in Splenda), and Saccharin (found in Sweet ‘N Low). If you are forced to choose between regular sugar and these artificial options, choose regular table sugar – but limit yourself.

Better Sweetener Options

Fortunately, natural sweeteners and flavors can enhance food without the need for artificial additives. Raw honey, stevia, vanilla, and cinnamon are all excellent choices. Try to get creative with whole food recipes in order to discover the potential of naturally flavored food and retrain your taste buds to enjoy natural sweeteners in small quantities.

For additional help modifying your diet, detoxifying your body, and making changes to achieve better health, call Optimal Health Medical. Dr. Sobo will help you adjust your diet, rid your body of toxins, and optimize your health. Call (203) 348-8805 to make your appointment today.