Remember the margarine commercial with the saying, “It’s not nice to fool Mother Nature”? Well, this applies not only to fake butter but also to artificial sweeteners. Consuming these fake sugars may lead to unhealthy consequences for your body.
Artificial Sweeteners and Weight Gain
Research at the University of Michigan revealed that when you consume artificial sweeteners, your body doesn’t feel satisfied since these non-caloric flavorings do not satisfy the body’s need for nutrients. Instead, the fake sugars can lead to delayed overeating.
This study demonstrates that when you eat something naturally sugary, it stimulates the action of half a dozen neurons that release a hormone affecting both the gut and the brain. This hormone kickstarts digestion. Artificial sweeteners, on the other hand, have no effect on this hormone, thus having no digestive effect.
Without any physiological satisfaction from the artificial sweetener, your body still craves real sugar. This effect teases the body, depriving it of nutrition and making it want to seek out a real sweetener that will stimulate the hormone.
The Rebound Effect
When diet foods with artificial sweeteners leave our bodies frustrated and famished, a rebound effect occurs. The result is binge eating and weight gain.
It’s essential to be aware of the potential risks of consuming artificial sweeteners and make informed choices when it comes to satisfying your sweet tooth.
Healthy Alternatives to Artificial Sweeteners
There are several healthy, natural alternatives to artificial sweeteners that will help to satisfy your cravings. Some of these options include:
- Dark chocolate
- Cinnamon sugar on popcorn
- Honey drizzled on a banana
- Low-glycemic fruits like watermelon and apples
Other Health Dangers of Artificial Sweeteners
In addition to weight gain and overeating, artificial sweeteners have been linked to other health issues. Some of these health problems are:
- Increased risk of metabolic syndrome: A study found that people who consumed diet soda had a 34% higher risk of developing metabolic syndrome than those who did not.
- Type 2 diabetes: A study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition reported that people who consumed artificial sweeteners had a 13% increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
- Negative impact on gut health: Artificial sweeteners can disrupt the balance of good bacteria in your gut. A study published in Nature found that mice who consumed artificial sweeteners had a significant change in their gut microbiota.
Conclusion
Artificial sweeteners may seem like a good option for those seeking to reduce their sugar intake, but they can lead to harmful consequences such as overeating, weight gain, and other health problems. Opting for natural alternatives that satisfy your sweet tooth and provide your body with essential nutrients is a much better choice. Make sure to make informed decisions when it comes to the ingredients you consume and prioritize your health in your food choices.
