The truth about synthetic sweeteners

Author: Margarita Kuts - doctor-dietitian, gastroenterologist, and body mesotherapist.
2013-12-26

In my previous article, we discussed natural sugar substitutes: what types there are and what effects they have on our bodies. Now let's talk about synthetic substitutes. All representatives of this group of sugar substitutes are produced artificially. Most of them (saccharin, cyclamate, aspartame, sucralose) do not possess caloric value and are not absorbed by the body at all. However, some of them do have an effect on our body.

Let's dive into what that effect is.

Saccharin

Saccharin is the most popular chemical sugar substitute in the world. The only safety requirement is adherence to the daily norm. The acceptable daily amount is 2.5 mg per kilogram of body weight, or no more than 4 tablets per day.

Saccharin is widely used in the food industry. The food additive "E 954" is nothing other than saccharin. In Russia, the most common type of saccharin is "Sukrazit."

It is very important to note that Sukrazit does not break down during thermal processing. This means it can be used for cooking various dishes, confectioneries, compotes, jams, etc.

Another sugar substitute based on saccharin is "Sukradiet."

Cyclamate

It’s worth mentioning that this sugar substitute has been banned in many European countries. In Russia, cyclamate is allowed for everyone except pregnant women, children, and people with kidney failure. What makes it so dangerous?

Under the influence of intestinal bacteria, cyclamate quickly converts in the human body into a highly toxic cyclohexylamine. With continuous use of this sugar substitute, skin allergic reactions may also occur. Draw your own conclusions!

Aspartame

Aspartame is available in tablets of 18 mg. 1 g of the substance contains 4 kcal. Its sweet taste disappears during thermal processing. The acceptable dose is 40 mg. Now, here’s the most important part:

Debates about this substance continue to this day. Interestingly, research funded by the industry confirms the safety of aspartame. In contrast, independently funded studies have shown that this substance is potentially harmful.

In my opinion, as they say, there's no smoke without fire! The fact that aspartame is used extensively in the food industry due to its low cost is undeniable!

When you buy soda labeled "Light" or "Diet," be sure: it contains aspartame. This sugar substitute can even be found in drinks where it shouldn't be present by definition, such as kvass. Kvass is a fermentation drink made from sugar. Aspartame has no business being in it. If you see "aspartame" or "Nutrisweet" on a label of so-called natural kvass, know that it is definitely not kvass! It is more likely a sweetened solution of brown dye with added citric acid "E330."

Aspartame is especially dangerous in heated beverages. When heated, it decomposes, releasing methanol. Ingested methanol is converted into formaldehyde in the body—a substance with a sharp odor and class "A" carcinogen. In other words, it belongs to the same group of substances as arsenic and cyanide. And these are deadly poisons!!!

Sucrose

Sucrose is a harmless and calorie-free sugar substitute obtained by treating sucrose with chlorine. Sucrose helps keep our teeth healthy. Unlike natural sugars (fructose, sucrose, glucose), sucrose is very resistant to the action of oral bacteria. This substitute reduces the acidity of drinks such as coffee and fruit juices, thereby neutralizing the pH of dental plaque and reducing the risk of dental and gum diseases.

Experts agree on the safety of this substance, even for pregnant women and young children. The maximum dose is 5 mg per kilogram of body weight.

Unfortunately, sucrose is rarely used in the food industry because it is the most expensive substitute in the Russian market. It is also quite rare in our pharmacies, which is a pity.

Conclusion

My personal choice is a sugar substitute called "Fit Parad." It consists mostly of natural raw materials:

• Stevioside (stevia extract);
• Rosehip extract;
• Erythritol - a component obtained from fruits;
• Sucrose;
• Jerusalem artichoke extract.

Now you know how to navigate the vast array of sweeteners. But remember, overdosing on any substance can harm your health. Good luck!