The Toxic Truth About Artificial Sweeteners

The problem with sugar is that it doesn't contain any nutrients so when you consume too much you crowd out room for healthier foods. In fact, it is estimated that on average, Americans consume over 200 pounds of refined sugar annually. On the other side of the coin you have artificial sweeteners which are getting more negative press as adverse health effects begin to emerge.

What's the big deal? Well, decades ago it was found that some artificial sweeteners may cause cancer and were taken out of products and off the shelves. Next, enter the next latest and greatest. The FDA said it was the recommended alternative and put it in all sugar free products. It wasn't very long before women in particular started having negative side effects as a result of ingesting it in their usual products. Later it was discovered that due to a chemical reaction in the body, it can act as a neurotoxin (one that affects the brain and nervous system). It is now speculated to mimic symptoms of Alzheimers, MS, Parkinsons and a host of other neurological diseases. While it hasn't been taken off the market, there is yet another contender.

It's claim to fame is that it is a healthy alternative to other artificial sweeteners because it is made from sugar. Yes, it is manufactured from sugar molecules but in order for it to be converted, labs have to use a process whereby they chlorinate it. Hello, I said chlorinate! We know chlorine is a known carcinogen and shouldn't be consumed in any amount. Since it has only been on the market for a short time, there is no way of knowing whether it will cause harmful side effects. If history is any indication, I wouldn't be so quick to be the guinea pig for such a study. I'll admit, it is confusing even for those of us in the health profession. There is so much conflicting information being bombarded on us all the time that it is just too difficult to keep up on all the latest information.

What about sugar alcohol? Sugar alcohol usually ends in "tol" on labels. These can be an acceptable alternative in very small amounts as they do not affect blood sugar as much as the real thing, but too much can cause gastric distress, bloating, cramps and diarrhea. You will find sugar alcohol in many of the low carb candies and chocolates on the market as well as products made for diabetics. This is one time when portion size really needs to be adhered to as not paying attention could cause some not so pleasant side effects. Your best bet is to minimize refined sugar rather than substitute it with anything artificial.

Health tip: Try using fruit juice or Stevia to sweeten things instead. In fact, applesauce is a great substitute for sugar and oil in baked goods.

Corie Goodson is a health educator and speaker, freelance writer and author of the book Tween Kwisine: A Road To Better Health. For more information log onto: http://www.happydogpublications.com

---

Health Update: Have Your Chocolate and Eat It, Too!

According to the Congress of the International Society on Thrombosis... Read More

Fruits for Summer: Summer Skin Care

Summer is the time when we sweat highly and beating... Read More

Does your body know its ABCs??

What are Glyconutritionals?The Greek word "Glyco" means "Sugar". Most people... Read More

A Result Producing Guide to Nutrition

If you want to build muscle, lose body fat or... Read More

Constipation

Constipation is the passing of dry, hard faeces fewer than... Read More

Small Changes Yield Big Benefits

You can start today - right now, even - on... Read More

Combat High Blood Pressure and Cholesterol with Soybeans

You may have heard of the "Portfolio Diet" wherein it... Read More

Is Dr. Arthur Agatston Fearing the Loss of Popularity of South Beach Diet?

Dr. Arthur Agatston, the cardiologist who developed South Beach Diet... Read More

What You Should Know About

I don't understand people sometimes. You know, there is a... Read More

Healthy Eating

Recently I found the book : "Eating and health according... Read More

Nutrition For Your Young Athlete

Nutrition is extremely important for any young person, especially an... Read More

Food for Potential Energy

FOOD (Macro-nutrients)One of the most important aspects of hill walking... Read More

The Portfolio Diet: The Solution to Heart Disease

What if there was a combination of foods that were... Read More

Is Organic Really Better for You?

I had finally come to a place in my life... Read More

Best Skin Diet For Healthy Skin

"You are what you eat."Does it sound familiar? You probably... Read More

What is A Balanced Diet For Losing Weight and Good Health?

The total calories that you should be consuming depend on... Read More

What is Organic Food?

"Organic" has some quite specific legal definitions in most developed... Read More

Can a Child Thrive on a Vegan Diet? YES!

Can a child thrive on a vegan diet? The answer... Read More

Glycemic Index of Foods

All carbohydrates are not the same. Generally it is assumed... Read More

How The Food Industry Influences Nutrition and Health

When was the last time you consumed soda? Most likely,... Read More

Monitoring BMI In Children Today Could Lead To Better Health

In a new study published by the American Heart Association,... Read More

Whatever Happened to the Basic Four Food Groups?

What Ever Happened to the Basic FourThe USDA was originally... Read More

The Worse Mistakes People Make with Food

There are a number of common food mistakes that costs... Read More

Blueberries and Their Role in Cholesterol Control

Our bodies need cholesterol. We use cholesterol to produce vitamin... Read More

Gift of Health

People want to get the very best they can when... Read More

Things You Should Know about Vitamin K?s Unique Power

How well do you know about vitamin K? This vitamin... Read More

Foods Can Lower Cholesterol and C-reactive Protein

If you have high cholesterol, the American Heart Association's low-cholesterol,... Read More

The Anti-Aging Wonders of Hyaluronic Acid

ABC News has recently focused on the possible anti-aging benefits... Read More

Snack Attack - How to Keep Your Hunger Between Meals from Getting the Best of You

The Benefits of SnackingYou may feel regretful about snacking, but... Read More

4 Important Facts You Should Know About Whey Protein

Are you concerned about taking care of your body before... Read More

Buying Organic Produce: 6 Tips on How to Shop Wisely and Save Money

Some say they don't or can't buy organic foods due... Read More

Rediscovering Protein - Corrective Action in the American Diet

Protein must be a part of a healthy diet for... Read More

The Four Cornerstones of Nutrition

What is nutrition? We hear so many reports today on... Read More