In recent years we have been bombarded with a variety of options for sweeteners, derived from synthetic or natural sources. Some contain calories, others do not. How do you decide which one to use? While it may seem the best of both worlds (a sweet substance that doesn’t cause weight gain), there has been evidence that artificial sweeteners can have adverse effects on the body.    

Alcohol sugars are common additives in sugarless gum, but are not completely absorbed in the body.  These sugars can cause abdominal gas and diarrhea.  In fact, mannitol and sorbitol – common sugars in gum – include warnings that excessive consumption can lead to digestive issues.

Recently, one popular artificial sweetener has been scrutinized for being a possible carcinogen.  Some experiments have shown aspartame (known as Equal and NutraSweet) in high doses may increase the likelihood of blood cancers.  However, the Food and Drug Administration has not found any issues with aspartame and endorses its use as a general-purpose sweetener. It is a lot sweeter than table sugars and can be used in smaller quantities.

As a natural alternative, PureVia is derived from the sweetest part of the stevia leaf and has been incorporated into zero-calorie sodas. Studies have found that the plant that PureVia is derived from confers significant health benefits, improving immune function and glucose absorption in the body, but the effects and benefits of the actual sweetener have yet to be tested. Agave nectar and “raw” sugar are also great, natural sugar alternatives.

New trends in our society create expectations of tasty, low-fat foods through the use of synthetic additives. However, our stomachs are incapable of digesting many of these sugars, and their consumption is not necessarily warranted just because they are calorie-free.

Like most things in life, things are better in moderation. You can apply this concept to common, granulated sugars or artificial sweeteners and avoid digestive issues and extra poundage.