Artificial sweeteners have long been touted as a healthy alternative to sugar, but a new study has raised questions about this concept, as artificial sweeteners can affect the body’s metabolism and blood sugar control system.
According to research, many commonly used artificial sweeteners can affect blood sugar balance instead of controlling it. Researchers say that although artificial sweeteners contain negligible calories, they can still affect the body’s metabolism and blood sugar control system. Professor Meng Wang, from the Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy at Tufts University, and her team reviewed 21 randomized clinical trials, in which people using artificial sweeteners were compared with those using water or a calorie-free placebo.
The study found that fasting insulin and HbA1c levels were relatively higher in people using artificial sweeteners. HbA1c is considered an important indicator of long-term blood sugar control. According to the researchers, the results also showed that insulin sensitivity was reduced in people using artificial sweeteners, although the evidence in this regard was relatively weak.
Experts say that this study shows that the effects of artificial sweeteners on the body may be more complex than previously thought, so more research is needed in this regard.
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