Swithers, S (2015) Appetite 93 (2015) 85–90
OBJECTIVE: To consider scientific evidence related to replacing caloric sugars with sweeteners which provide sweetness without the potential detrimental effects associated with intake of sugar, in order to reduce overweight and obesity in children.
DESIGN: Narrative review
SETTING: USA
PARTICIPANTS: Various
MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: physiological mechanisms and potential effects of artificial sweeteners in relation to weight outcomes and risks to health in comparison with sugars. Potential strategies for consideration to reduce risks of childhood obesity.
RESULTS: This review notes that evidence which suggests artificial sweeteners help to promote weight loss is inconsistent. The authors discuss the physiological mechanisms which may explain the consequences of artificial sweeteners, including the effects of altered sweet preferences during childhood, interference with regulation of metabolic processes and altered composition of the gut microbiota. The potential impact of setting behaviours and dietary preferences in childhood is noted, along with the role that parents can play in the solution to reducing and managing intake of sweetened beverages in their children, and the negative impact of marketing and wide availability of sweetened foods and drinks.
CONCLUSIONS: Current evidence suggests that artificially sweetened beverages are better than sugar-sweetened options, however the authors note that they are not necessarily a healthy option. Reducing sweetener intake altogether, whether caloric or non-caloric, may offer a positive strategy to combat overweight and obesity.
Note to Readers: Any opinions expressed in the recent research abstracts are those of the authors of the original scientific papers and may not reflect the views of Sugar Nutrition UK