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TheFDAfirst approved sucralose for use as a general-purposesweetenerin 1999, and it’s been popular ever since.
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However, there’s been much controversy over this nonnutritive sweetener (NNS).
In fact, recent research reveals the potential added danger associated with consuming sucralose.
Given these revelations, more people are wondering if this sweetener is worth using at all.
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What is sucralose?
How is sucralose made?
Sucralose is not sugar, but it does start off as such.
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The patentedsucralose manufacturing processcontains multiple steps.
This molecular change results in the super sweet, zero-calorie, powdered sweetener we know as sucralose.
How does the human body process sucralose?
Studies indicate thatsucralose can be passed on by nursing mothersin their breast milk.
Why is sucralose controversial?
But sucralose, like other artificial sweeteners, is highly controversial.
The FDA has reportedly reviewed over 110 safety studies on sucralose.
These studies focused on toxicity, including adverse effects on neurological and reproductive systems.
Because none of these adverse effects were found in sucralose, the FDAapproved itfor consumption as a general-purpose sweetener.
Based on these findings, some dietitians suggest steering clear of it altogether if you’re able to.
Does sucralose cause weight gain?
Does sucralose make you crave sugar?
It is said that sugar is addictiveand this might just be the case with artificial sweeteners, too.
Sugar substitutes may be related to changes ingut bacteriathat lead to thestorage of fat.
When you eat natural sugar, your body releases insulin to stabilize your blood sugar levels.
Alternatively, it is thought that sugar substitutes don’t raise insulin or blood sugar levels in healthy people.
But, one study found something different.
In morerecent studies, sucralose increased the insulin response to sugar when taken ten minutes before glucose.
The body’s insulin response to sweeteners is something that requires more research.
Overall, more studies are needed to know theeffects of sucralose on blood sugar.
Which products contain this artificial sweetener?
Sucralose is readily available in many pre-packaged items on store shelves.
Since this artificial sweetener is very stable, it is found in various food and drink items.
