“STUDY FINDS SUCRALOSE SAFE FOR DIABETICS, IMPROVES METRICS”
Why in the news?
A study found sucralose safe for diabetics, improving body weight, waist circumference, and BMI, with no adverse impact on glucose or HbA1c levels, countering negative publicity against sweeteners.
source:slideshare
Study Overview:
Recent Indian study assessed replacing sucrose with sucralose in coffee and tea.
Conducted a 12-week randomised controlled trial with 210 Type 2 diabetes (T2D)
Published in Diabetes Therapy, July.
Key Findings
No adverse impact on glucose or HbA1c
Marginal improvements noted in body weight, waist circumference, and BMI.
Sucralose was found to be a safe sugar substitute for diabetics.
About Artificial Sweeteners:
Sugar substitutes used as alternatives to natural sugars.
Chemically synthesised, providing sweetness without high calories.
Commonly found in diet sodas, sugar-free desserts, and low-calorie snacks.
Safe for individuals with phenylketonuria (PKU) due to low/no calories, minimal blood sugar impact, non-fermentable nature, and absence of phenylalanine.
Negative Impacts:
Controversial Health Effects: Potential risks of metabolic disorders and disrupted gut microbiota; evidence inconclusive.
Digestive Issues: Possible bloating, gas, or diarrhoea in some individuals.
About Sucralose:
Type: Artificial sweetener and sugar substitute
Caloric Content: Noncaloric
Digestion: Majority of ingested sucralose is not broken down by the body
Usage: Commonly used in beverages and food as a sugar alternative Benefits: Helps in reducing calorie and sugar intake without affecting blood glucose levels