By: Sarah Romotsky, RD Date: 1/5/12
As a Registered Dietitian, I take my commitment to promoting public health very seriously just like my colleagues. I care about the safety of my food because just like you, I want to keep myself and my family protected from health risks. However, I also know as a food and nutrition expert that there is a lot of information out there that is incorrect and not based on scientific evidence. Because some of the claims about low-calorie sweeteners strike an emotional chord with us, it can be difficult to analyze the information objectively and discern fact from fiction. Here are some of the common myths about low-calorie sweeteners and what the science says:
Myth: Low-calorie sweeteners increase the risk of adverse health conditions.
Fact: Low-calorie sweeteners have a long history of safe use in a variety of foods and beverages. Hundreds of studies have been conducted on low-calorie sweeteners and they are among the most studied ingredients in the food supply. They are thoroughly tested and carefully regulated by U.S. and international regulatory authorities, as well as scientific organizations, to ensure their safety. Suggestions by some that low-calorie sweeteners are associated with adverse health effects are not supported by the broad-based research. Also, a few studies linking low-calorie sweeteners to certain types of cancer did not follow established Good Laboratory Practices and have been dismissed by regulators and scientists. Acesulfame-K, aspartame, neotame, saccharin, stevia, and sucralose are the permitted low-calorie sweeteners by the FDA and are safe to eat in foods and beverages.
Myth: There are no standard limits on the amount of low-calorie sweeteners that can be consumed
Fact: The FDA has set Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) levels for each low-calorie sweetener as an added safety measure. The ADI is the amount of an ingredient that a person can safely consume every day over a lifetime without risk. According to the American Dietetic Association’s guide “The Truth about Artificial Sweeteners or Sugar Substitutes,” even for the people who consume the most low-calorie sweeteners, such as dieters, adults, and children with diabetes, the intake is only 5-10% of the ADI. Also, when FDA approves a food additive, it specifies the approved amount and use(s) of the food additive in foods and beverages, and amounts and uses beyond that are not permitted.
Myth: Low-calorie sweeteners cause weight gain.
Fact: Several studies show that low-calorie sweeteners do not cause weight gain and in fact, can offer help with weight management. According to the research, people who incorporate foods and beverages sweetened with low-calorie sweeteners into their diet in place of calorie-containing sweeteners actually consume fewer calories than those who do not. The position statement of the American Dietetic Association states that “non-nutritive sweeteners…have been shown to promote modest loss of weight and, within a multidisciplinary weight control program, may facilitate long-term maintenance of reduction in body weight.” However, it is important to remember that there is no “magic bullet” solution for weight loss. Low-calorie sweeteners are a tool that can be used to reach weight loss goals in conjunction with other healthy lifestyle practices such as portion control and regular physical activity.
For more information on low-calorie sweeteners, please visit:
Expert Perspectives on Low-Calorie Sweeteners and Weight (videos)
Facts About Low-Calorie Sweeteners
Low-Calorie Sweeteners: Their Role in Healthful Eating
Questions and Answers about Low-Calorie Sweeteners, Appetite, and Weight Management