Artificial sweeteners could be associated with an increased risk of weight gain in the long run as well as an increased risk of diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure and heart diseases, suggests a study.
-In a study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal, it was suggested that the use of artificial sweeteners may be associated with long-term weight gain and other related diseases.
-To understand whether taking artificial sweeteners has any association with long-term effects on weight and heart disease, researchers from the University of Manitoba conducted a systematic review of 37 studies that followed over 400,000 people for an average of 10 years.
-7 of these 37 studies were randomised controlled trials (the gold standard in clinical research), involving 1003 people followed for 6 months on average.
-The randomised controlled trials did not show a consistent effect of artificial sweeteners on weight loss, but the longer observational studies showed a link between consumption of artificial sweeteners and relatively increased risk of weight gain and obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease and other health issues.
-Researchers are of the view that caution should be exercised while using the artificial sweeteners until the effects of these sweeteners are fully assessed.
-Considering the fact that the use of artificial sweeteners is so widespread, and also the fact that there is an epidemic of obesity and other related health issues, further research is needed to determine the long-term risks and benefits of these products.
Source: Canadian Medical Association Journal