Artificial sweeteners are used as a viable substitute for sugar. They add the same flavor to food and drinks but without the negative effects of sugar. They are often used by those who have diabetes and those who are trying to lose weight. The majority of these sweeteners contain no calories at all. Artificial sweeteners are often much sweeter than regular sugar so you don’t need to substitute it on an equal basis.
Artificial sweeteners were discovered accidentally in the late 1800’s when a researcher learned that a mixture he spilled on his hand tasted sweet. Today they are a staple in the diet of many individuals. Artificial sweeteners can be used in tea, Kool-Aid, lemonade, and any type of baked goods including cookies. Since they taste so similar to real sugar the individual doesn’t feel deprived of their favorite things.
Research that has been conducted in the dental field shows children and adults who use artificial sweeteners suffer from less tooth decay than those who use regular sugar. Other studies show artificial sweeteners quickly reduce cravings for sweets and other sugary products promoting better overall health.
For the most part artificial sweeteners are very safe for individuals to use, even children. They are better for the body than real sugar is because they contain fewer calories you use less of the artificial sweetener than sugar.
There are some individuals who have a reaction to the sweetener aspartame because they suffer from Phenylketonuria (PKU). A screening for this is done at birth so individuals will know if they have it. A common side effect with it is extreme headaches.
If you consume large amounts of alcohol artificial sweeteners can cause bloating and diarrhea. Some individuals don’t do well with a particular type of artificial sweetener so they have to try several different ones. One issue to be concerned with is that using artificial sweeteners doesn’t mean you can consume twice as many sweets!
There are many different types of artificial sweeteners on the market today. You can buy them at the store and find several offered at restaurants and coffee shops. The most popular artificial sweetener is Sweet n Low which contains saccharin. Splenda and Equal are also quite popular as well.
