Not so sweet news!
The sugar tax may have just taken effect, causing some to turn to sweeteners as an alternative. However, new research has suggested that artificial sweeteners may have similar health consequences as sugar, but through completely different biochemical pathways. Indeed, evidence is now mounting that consuming large amounts of these chemicals could also lead to obesity and metabolic disorders.
With this news, it may seem as though we cannot have anything sweet anymore! But this is not the real message that should be taken away from this new research. Instead, we should focus on the fact that any substance, when taken without proper moderation, could lead to health complications. Indeed, while sugar can lead to both health and oral issues, consuming it in moderation and following healthcare advice from professionals renders most of the risks negligible. The same is likely true for artificial sweeteners. The message is not that healthcare professionals are trying to ban all the nice things in life – we are simply arming you with the facts that you need to take the right steps towards a healthier life. By knowing the risks and following all the advice, you can still indulge your sweet tooth – as long as it’s in a responsible, aware way.
