The sugar-free beverage market is still growing. Sucralose, aspartame and saccharin are all substances used to offer sugary, low-calorie alternatives to people who want to keep the line as pointed out by our colleagues at Le Point. Indeed, at a time when thinness becomes the norm to follow, more and more people are interested in the caloric load and the amount of sugars present in the food they consume. But at what price do you want to lose weight? Would you go so far as to sacrifice your health to get the body you want?
Priced for their low sugar content, "light" drinks are gaining more and more audience in France. Consumed to satisfy the desire for sugar, these sodas contain sweeteners that promise to offer our taste buds a pleasant taste without the inconvenience of sugar.
In cereals, jams, biscuits, yogurts and drinks, sweeteners are all the rage. Unfortunately, and contrary to what one might think, they would not be without risk.
They can increase the risk of diabetes
Sweeteners are in vogue right now. Their sweetness and low calorie content offer them an interesting role. Indeed, the agri-food industries can present products able to satisfy those who want to keep their line while having fun with these sweeteners. However, these are controversial. In assessing their impact on metabolic diseases, it has been shown that regular consumption of sweeteners is associated with the development of diabetes. According to the results of scientific research, people who regularly consume sweeteners are likely to suffer from type 2 diabetes.
In addition, according to a study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, the consumption of so-called light drinks is strongly correlated with a risk of developing diabetes. Indeed, artificial sugars can cause a peak blood sugar. If we consume light drinks daily, our body experiences several peaks in blood sugar levels that can lead to insulin resistance.
They increase the risk of stroke
Opting for light drinks to maintain a healthy weight would not be an ideal solution. Sweeteners can cause multiple diseases and increase the risk of stroke. One study found that sweetened beverages were associated with a higher risk of stroke and dementia. Light sodas are also more likely to cause severe brain damage such as cognitive decline or brain atrophy.
They promote obesity
Light drinks are not caloric and yet they are likely to promote weight gain. The reason is simple: Sweeteners do not activate the reward circuit like natural sugar. Indeed, a study has shown that the brain satisfies its sweet need with an energy content, not a simple sweet taste. Sweeteners do not fulfill their role correctly because they do not satisfy the craving for sugar but on the contrary, stimulate the appetite! Another study shows that sweeteners promote sugar addiction and result in considerable weight gain when ingested on a regular basis. Thus, people who take light drinks eat more and may end up developing morbid obesity.
How to replace sugar without health risks?
There is nothing better than natural products. And of course, honey is at the top of the list of the healthiest sweet foods. Rich in antioxidants, honey fights free radicals that can cause damage in the body. It has a lower glycemic index than white sugar. In addition, according to one study, polyphenols in some honeys lead to an increase in basal metabolism and promote adipose tissue elimination. In addition, honey consumption can help regulate appetite by reducing leptin, also known as the satiety hormone.
Honey has many strengths and can be consumed with moderation in a weight loss approach to sweeten your infusions and natural drinks.
