In a review study titled “Artificial Sweeteners: a place in the field of functional foods? Focus on obesity and related metabolic disorders” authors Raben and Richelsen concluded that evidence from short-term intervention studies show that low-calorie sweeteners (LCS) do not stimulate hunger or appetite, increase energy intake, body weight, body fat, blood sugar levels, insulin levels, or blood fat levels. They also reported that large population studies found decreased body weight and lower risks of type-2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease in users of LCS, although they noted that those studies cannot show cause and effect. This study adds to the growing body of scientific literature supporting the consumption of low-calorie foods and beverages to assist with weight loss in humans.
Here are more details on what the researchers found:
According to Theresa Hedrick, a dietitian with the Calorie Control Council, this study is good news for people looking for simple, easy and effective ways to reduce calories, lose weight and improve their health. “Making small, simple changes you can live with over a lifetime is a great way to reduce calories and ultimately lose weight. This research review shows that small changes, such as choosing reduced- or sugar-free foods and beverages, can be helpful in overall health and wellness.”