(Washington, D.C.) — A study published in the March 3, 2020 journal Cell Metabolism claiming that consuming a carbohydrate with sucralose-sweetened beverages causes metabolic impairment leading to insulin sensitivity has a number of limitations and is in contradiction to the current body of evidence indicating that sucralose does not negatively impact insulin sensitivity in healthy adults,1-4 according to the Calorie Control Council. “The new study allegations are contrary to decades of testing and approval by regulatory authorities around the world, which have found low and no calorie sweeteners (LNCS), including sucralose, to be safe for use and effective in helping with diabetes and weight management,” said Robert Rankin, president of the Council.
The limitations of the study, “Short-Term Consumption of Sucralose with, but not without, Carbohydrate Impairs Neural and Metabolic Sensitivity to Sugar in Humans,” included:
What the Experts Say
Global health organizations around the world, including The American Heart Association, American Diabetes Association and British Dietetic Association note that the use of LNCS can be helpful for people with diabetes as they do not raise blood glucose or insulin levels, and when used to replace sugar, can help lower carbohydrate intake.
“For individuals affected by excess weight or diabetes, nutrition plays a major role. Low and no calorie sweeteners, including sucralose, are excellent tools to reduce sugar intake, manage blood glucose levels, and reduce overall calorie intake,” added Rankin.
Leading organizations have utilized the most rigorous and extensive testing methods to evaluate LNCS for use in diabetes management and have concluded:
For a half a century, The Calorie Control Council has been reviewing science on low calorie sweeteners and diet products. Established in 1966, the Council is an international association representing the low- and reduced-calorie food and beverage industry. Council staff includes experts certified in public health, food and nutrition. More at caloriecontrol.org.
Jelle R. Dalenberg, Barkha P. Patel, Raphael Denis, Maria G. Veldhuizen, Yuko Nakamura, Petra C. Vinke, Serge Luquet, Dana M. Small Short-Term Consumption of Sucralose with, but Not without, Carbohydrate Impairs Neural and Metabolic Sensitivity to Sugar in Humans Cell Metabolism: Clinical and Translational Report Volume 31, ISSUE 3, P493-502.e7, March 03, 2020
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