A new review in the summer 2013 edition of US Endocrinology found that low-calorie sweeteners can be used to both help prevent and manage Type 2 diabetes.
The study, "The Role of Low-calorie Sweeteners in Diabetes," examined the role between excess weight gain and management and prevention of Type 2 diabetes from the currently available literature. Additionally, the authors reviewed the literature to assess the potential benefits of low-calorie sweeteners in diabetes management.
The review was conducted by a team of researchers at Baylor College of Medicine.
The researchers concluded that replacing added sugars with low-calorie sweeteners can reduce the rise in blood glucose levels and aid in controlling weight. They also said that low-calorie sweeteners have no adverse effects on insulin and hormone levels and therefore did not affect weight gain.
The review also indicated that low-calorie sweeteners can help an individual adhere to weight loss regimens; that the use of low-calorie sweeteners can help to keep weight off over time; and that low-calorie sweeteners can have a positive impact on dental health. The resaechers also concluded that, for those people who do not have Type 2 diabetes, the use of low-calorie sweeteners can help to manage hyperglycemia.
The authors concluded that, "low-calorie sweeteners offer a practical method for promoting a reduction in caloric intake," and therefore can aid in weight and diabetes management.
"This review adds to the growing body of scientific evidence suggesting that low calorie sweeteners can play an important role in the management of diabetes, " said Haley Curtis Stevens, Ph.D., president of the Calorie Control Council, an association of manufacturers of low-calorie, sugar-free, reduced fat and "light" foods and beverages companies. "Foods and beverages sweetened with low calorie sweeteners offer lower calorie alternatives that can be important tools in the fight against obesity and diabetes."
