Artificial sweeteners have been marketed to consumers as a “healthier” alternative to classic sugars. Subsequently, this has created a surge in their popularity over the past few decades. Sweeteners such as aspartame, sucralose and acesulfame-K have become ubiquitous. Widely used in “diet” drinks and low-calorie foods. Manufacturers have advertised artificial sweeteners as tools that can aid in weight management and metabolic health. But are consumers being told the whole truth?
Scientific reports on artificial sweeteners are revealing a more honest and concerning reality. Negative health implications, such as poor gut health and cancer, are being linked to artificial sweetener consumption.
At Nutritelligence, we have placed these concerns at the forefront of our innovative endeavours. This guide to artificial sweeteners explores their flavour profiles, the latest research, and our solution: Dr Coy’s safer, natural sugars.
Types of Artificial Sweeteners
Aspartsme
Aspartame is known for its clean, sugar-like sweetness. While it mimics sugar’s taste quite closely, some consumers may notice a subtle aftertaste.
Sucralose
Sucralose is exceptionally sweet, being about 600 times sweeter than sugar. Unlike some other artificial sweeteners, it remains stable at high temperatures, making it a popular option for baking.
Acesulfame-K:
Acesulfame-K is classified among the N-sulfamyl amides group of sweeteners, alongside saccharin. These sweeteners are popular due to their sweetness and low-calorie content.
By 2005, Acesulfame-K was included in about 20% of new food and drink products, indicating its growing prominence in the food industry. This trend aligns with the increasing demand for intense sweeteners driven by rising diabetes and obesity rates.
Health Impacts of Artificial Sweeteners
Diabetes and Weight Management
As global diabetes rates increase, the demand for diabetic-friendly products, including sweeteners, is expanding. Artificial sweeteners have capitalised on this market gap, with brands highlighting their low glycaemic index.
However, recent studies refute the claims that they have no impact on blood glucose levels. In reality, artificial sweeteners affect glucose absorption in the intestines and influence the release of insulin and other hormones in both humans and animals. Such changes can adversely impact blood sugar levels, which is particularly concerning for diabetics.
Artificial sweeteners are also marketed as weight-loss aids. Unsurprisingly, industry players like the National Soft Drink Association cite studies linking artificial sweetener consumption to weight loss.
However, recent meta-analyses indicate that these sweeteners are ineffective for weight management. Their physiological effects can lead to overeating and weight gain. These include spiked blood sugar levels, imbalance in gut microbiota, hormonal changes, and reduced sugar sensitivity (insulin resistance).
Further Health Risks Associated;
A significant study from the French NutriNet-Santé cohort study, which followed over 100,000 adults, exposed the carcinogenic potential of artificial sweeteners:
- Aspartame was linked to a 15% increased risk of overall cancer, including breast cancer and obesity-related cancers.
- Acesulfame-K was associated with a 13% increased risk of cancer.
Moreover, emerging research has raised concerns about sucralose’s effects on the gut microbiome, potentially harming digestion and immune function. Consequently, the long-term safety of sucralose continues to be evaluated.
Trends and Innovation in Sugar Alternatives
As of 2008, the market for artificial sweeteners has grown rapidly, with an annual growth rate of about 8%, compared to the slower growth of traditional sweeteners at 3-4%. This surge is driven by increasing consumer interest in healthier sugar alternatives.
Dr Coy’s natural sugars circumvent the concerns associated with artificial sweeteners. Sourced from nature and backed by science—including approval from the European Food Safety Authority and independent studies—these sugars offer a safer, healthier option. With a lower glycaemic index and fewer calories, Dr Coy’s sugars provide the same satisfying sweetness without associated health risks or aftertastes.
Tagatose:
Tagatose is 90% as sweet as traditional sugar but has a much lower glycaemic index of 3. It is partially absorbed by the body and feeds beneficial gut bacteria. Hence, its low-calorie content. Tagatose also activates fat burning, is tooth-friendly and stabilises blood glucose levels.
Galactose:
Galactose has a glycaemic index of 20 – 70% lower than that of sucrose – helping maintain stable blood glucose levels.
Studies show that galactose shifts metabolic processes in the body. Although it has the same calorie content as glucose, it requires more energy to process, effectively resulting in fewer calories. Further, galactose causes the cell powerhouses (mitochondria) to activate fat burning.
Reports also suggest galactose prevents memory loss and is tooth friendly.
Erythritol:
Erythritol is a sugar alcohol found in fruits like watermelon, pear, and grape, as well as fermented foods like cheese. It’s about 70% as sweet as sugar but the glycaemic index is 0 – avoiding blood sugar spikes. Erythritol is suitable for diabetics or anyone seeking weight management as it has 0 calories and inhibits insulin resistance.
Since erythritol is naturally produced in the body during glucose metabolism, it leaves the body without causing any negative physiological effects.
The Future of Sugar: Collaboration with Dr Coy
Mounting evidence links artificial sweeteners to various negative health outcomes, including poor gut health and cancer. Resultantly, the belief that these sweeteners are “healthier” than traditional sugars needs to be reassessed.
At Nutritelligence, we are dedicated to providing solutions that prioritise health and well-being.
By incorporating Dr Coy’s natural sugars into your products, you can offer a safer, more effective alternative to artificial sweeteners. Our scientifically backed sugars not only deliver great taste but also support metabolic health without the risks that are associated with artificial options. Partner with us to elevate your products and ensure they meet the growing demand for healthier choices.
Reach out to us to learn more about how we can assist with product development.
Read more about the wide range of Dr Coy’s sugars.
Resources
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/267335631_An_update_on_alternative_sweeteners
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1530891X21011083
