Sweeteners: WHO no longer recommends their use for weight control and warns of risks

The World Health Organization (WHO) recently released new guidelines on the use of sweeteners and their health effects.

According to the WHO, no longer recommended the use of this ingredient for weight control or as a strategy to reduce the risk of non-communicable diseases, such as hypertension and cardiovascular diseases.

The basis of the list of non-recommended sweeteners includes:

• Aspartame;
• Sucralose;
• Saccharin;
• Stevia and derivatives;

The list includes all types of synthetic, natural or modified sweeteners that are not considered sugars found in processed foods and beverages.

What the research says

The WHO reviewed recent available studies and found that the use of sweeteners does not provide significant long-term benefits in losing body fat in adults and children.

Furthermore, there are possible undesirable effects and risks from prolonged use of these sweeteners, such as a potential increased risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and even mortality in adults.

Suggested alternatives

Given these findings, rather than using sweeteners, the WHO recommends that people consider other ways to reduce their sugar intake.

For example, it is best to consume fruits and foods that are naturally sweet. It is important to avoid foods and drinks that contain added sugar or sweeteners.

Who should follow these recommendations

These recommendations apply to all people, except those with pre-existing diabetes, who already have a diagnosis of diabetes.

However, it is important to emphasize that the WHO recommendation does not apply to personal hygiene products, such as toothpaste, skin creams, medications and others, that contain sweeteners.

ANVISA

In Brazil, the National Health Surveillance Agency (Anvisa) will evaluate the new WHO guidelines together with the Ministry of Health and other government and private entities.

The objective is to discuss the application of these recommendations in the country, considering data on the consumption of sweeteners by the Brazilian population.

It is important to remember that, in Brazil, the marketing and use of sweeteners in products must be authorized by Anvisa, which assesses the safety of these products based on international guidelines from FAO/WHO.

New WHO guidelines on the use of this ingredient reveal shocking information about its impact on health.

Opting for natural alternatives and avoiding the consumption of sweeteners and sugars can be the key to making a healthier and more conscious choice.

If you are looking to stay informed about health and well-being, check out our content, access I am healthy.

Source: World Health Organization (WHO) and Brazil Agency.