The World Health Organization (WHO) today said that sweeteners are not effective for long-term weight control and may have unwanted effects when used over a long period of time, such as an increased risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease and mortality in adults. The danger increases.
For this reason, he advised against its use and explained that, in general, people should reduce sweets from their diet, and do so from an early age, in order to enjoy better health.
“Replacing free sugars (refined and natural present in fruits, honey and others) with sweeteners does not provide any long-term benefit in terms of reducing body fat in adults or children,” said the global public health governing body.
Specific products that are discouraged include acesulfame K, aspartame, avantame, cyclamates, neotame, saccharin, sucralose, as well as stevia and its derivatives.
“People need to consider other ways of reducing their intake of free sugar, such as eating foods that naturally contain sugars, such as fruit; or food and drink that are not sweetened,” said Francesco Branca, WHO director of nutrition and food safety.
This recommendation applies to everyone except those with pre-existing diabetes.
Similarly, the WHO pointed out that this new recommendation covers synthetic, natural or modified sweeteners, “that are not classified as sugars found in industrial foods and beverages” or that are specifically labeled for addition by the consumer. Is sold.
On the other hand, the organization clarified that its position regarding sweeteners does not apply to personal care or hygiene products, such as toothpaste, skin creams or medicines.
It also does not mean low-calorie sugars or sugar alcohols, as these are derivatives of sugar and contain calories, so they are not considered sweeteners.
This set of recommendations is based on the findings of a review of the scientific evidence and is part of the World Health Organization’s efforts to encourage countries to adopt policies that support healthy eating habits and quality diets, which reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
