Non-caloric sweeteners for controlling energy intake

Non-caloric sweeteners have become popular worldwide because, thanks to them, it is possible to soften food and drink without the calories that sugar brings. This quality has made coadjuvants to control energy intake, only in overweight people, but also in those with diabetes and metabolic syndrome.

The Mexican Society of Nutrition and Endocrinology (SMNE) convened a panel of experts to review in detail all available literature on non-caloric sweeteners that are used commercially in Mexico, the group of The experts concluded that:

• Non-caloric sweeteners do not alter appetite, satiety or hunger, nor do they cause variations in habitual calorie consumption.
• In adults and children, the consumption of non-caloric sweeteners has no effect on body weight, but when used as part of a structured program and supervised to control weight, can help reduce and maintain weight.
• In the specific case of children and adolescents, non-caloric sweeteners can help develop a healthy lifestyle, as long as the overconsumption of calories from other foods and beverages is supported.
• Non-caloric sweeteners are safe for infant consumption. They do not produce behavioral problems or cognitive deficits, convulsions or epileptic seizures.
• Non-caloric sweeteners do not affect blood sugar levels or how the body metabolizes glucose. For this reason, the substitution of sugars by these ingredients in the diet of patients with type 1 and 2 diabetes is a good option.
• The use of non-caloric sweeteners in nutritional plans for the treatment of diabetes, overweight and obesity. Obesity can be an option, since it contributes to the decrease in caloric intake.
• With the exception of saccharin, the responsible consumption of non-caloric sweeteners in pregnant and lactating women is safe, accompanied by a proper diet plan.
• Current data indicates that non-caloric sweeteners have no connection with cancer or tumor development.
• The consumption of non-caloric sweeteners in patients with liver or kidney damage.
• No relationship has been established between non-caloric sweeteners and the development of immunological diseases [1965901]. 6] MNCH's position with respect to non-caloric sweeteners is of great importance in clarifying any doubts that may exist about them, as well as to understand that they are a tool for reducing greenhouse gases. 39 calories intake of sugar, which may mean a health benefit.

  Print