Non-sugar sweeteners (NSS) are a category of sweetening agents that include both synthetic and naturally occurring or modified non-nutritive variants. Unlike traditional sugars, these sweeteners provide the sensation of sweetness without the accompanying calories. Some common examples of NSS are acesulfame K, aspartame, advantame, cyclamates, neotame, saccharin, sucralose, and stevia, along with its derivatives. They are widely used in foods and beverages to enhance sweetness without adding caloric content.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has recently issued guidelines advising against the use of non-sugar sweeteners as a method for weight control or reducing the risk of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). According to WHO, substituting free sugars with NSS does not yield long-term benefits in managing weight or lowering body fat in both adults and children.
The recommendation from WHO is founded on a comprehensive review that revealed the absence of long-term advantages in using NSS for body fat reduction. Moreover, prolonged use of NSS might lead to undesirable outcomes, such as an elevated risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and increased mortality rates in adults.
While the guideline is broadly applicable, exceptions exist for individuals with pre-existing diabetes, where NSS usage might still be advisable under medical supervision. WHO suggests alternative approaches to reduce sugar consumption, such as opting for foods rich in naturally occurring sugars like fruits and choosing unsweetened foods and beverages.
The WHO guideline does not extend to personal care and hygiene products containing NSS, such as toothpaste, skin creams, and medications. Additionally, low-calorie sugars and sugar alcohols (polyols), which contain calories, are not classified as NSS and are therefore not covered by this guideline.
The WHO's recommendation is conditional due to the complex interplay of factors influencing the observed relationship between NSS use and health outcomes. This suggests that policy decisions may require careful consideration of the specific consumption patterns of NSS within different demographics and regions.
In summary, these guidelines emphasize the importance of considering healthier dietary choices and understanding the broader implications of using non-sugar sweeteners. By fostering healthier eating habits early in life, individuals can reduce their reliance on added sweeteners, thereby promoting better long-term health outcomes.
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