Sugar substitutes can cause cancer and diabetes, according to doctor and TV presenter Alexander Myasnikov.
“It turns out that they are even more harmful than sugar. They are accused of developing cancer,” he noted on the air of the program “About the Most Important Thing.”
These substances are now in the so-called red zone, Myasnikov said.
The article, published in Plos Medicine, cited the results of a large-scale study by French scientists. They studied data from more than 100,000 people, paying attention to the amount of sugar substitutes in their diet. It turned out that those who abused aspartame and acesulfame potassium had a higher risk of developing cancer.
What do other studies say about artificial sweeteners?
Artificial sweeteners affect metabolism, causing increased appetite and calorie intake.
Sorbitol and mannitol can cause gas, bloating, and diarrhea, especially in large amounts.
Some artificial sweeteners alter the composition of gut microbiota.
Using artificial sweeteners can lead to a “psychological release,” where people begin to consume more calories, believing that they are saving on sugar.
Some people may have allergic reactions to certain artificial sweeteners.
The long-term effects of using sugar substitutes have not yet been fully studied.
As a rule, doctors recommend choosing stevia as a sweetener. It is a natural product, but with a unique taste. Stevia is a natural sugar substitute that is 200-300 times sweeter than sugar, but is completely calorie-free.
There are two main types of sweeteners: natural (or those that participate in metabolic processes) and synthetic. Natural ones include fructose, sorbitol, erythritol and stevia. Synthetic ones include sucralose, aspartame, saccharin, cyclamate and acesulfame K.
Read also: Urologist Smernitsky: irregular sex life negatively affects libido
Also on the topic: Important for hypertensive patients: what is consistently high blood pressure
You can read: Endocrinologist Kvasova: good sleep affects weight and is important for the central nervous system
Important! Information is provided for reference purposes. Ask a specialist about contraindications and side effects and do not self-medicate under any circumstances. At the first signs of illness, consult a doctor.
Alexander Myasnikov Medicine cardiologist, general practitioner, TV presenter