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nutritionWritten ByPartha Nandi, MD

Losing weight is tough, and there are times when we stray from our goals. But when we commit to a healthier lifestyle, we reap the rewards.

Sometimes, we find that something we thought was a healthy option might be doing us more harm than good. When this happens, we learn what we can and make the necessary adjustments.

A perfect example is usingΒ artificial sweeteners. We’ve been taught that they’re healthy and help us lose weight for a long time. It sounds like a good deal.

A lot of new research has been done, and I think you might be interested in the results.

More Harm Than Good?

Artificial sweeteners aren’t as perfect as we thought. We’re now learning that they can trigger cravings (which can lead to added pounds), affect gut bacteria, and even put you at higher risk for obesity, type 2 diabetes, and other diseases.

It doesn’t mean that you can never enjoy another diet cola again. It doesn’t mean that you can never again sweeten your coffee with the “fake stuff.”

It means that you might want to look at the research and ask yourself if sugar substitutes can help you get to where you want to be.

Your Nutrition. Your Choice.

One thing is sure. You won’t be able to give up your sweet tooth because of this new study, though. I know mine won’t be going anywhere. Still, you’re going to get a little bit of a sugar craving from time to time. But now you’ll be able to choose the best ways to make them happy.

Good nutrition isn’t about deprivation. It’s about moderation and informed choices. You now have this new information that will help you make smart decisions about nourishing your body. You don’t have to break up with artificial sweeteners completely, but you should be aware of how they can affect your health.

Artificial sweeteners can:

  • contribute to digestive problems
  • affect the way your body metabolizes sugar
  • increase your risk of certain diseases, including obesity, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes
  • contribute to emotional disorders including depression and anxiety
  • cause headaches, nausea, dizziness, and other undesired side effects
  • result in increased waist circumference and Body Mass Index (BMI)

Interestingly, there is absolutely NO solid evidence that the fake stuff helps people manage their weight.

Be a Health Hero

Now that you’re armed with this new information, what will you do with it? I recommend considering what good nutrition is about: balance, moderation, and nourishing yourself with healthy, natural foods. You’re in the driver’s seat, so it’s up to you to consider the risks and decide what will help you achieve your goals. I hope you choose to fight weight gain, reduce your risk of disease and get on the path to a healthy and joyful life.

Make healthy living a part of every day.

The light in me honors the light in you. Namaste.

Dr. Nandi

Partha’s Rx

  • Use sugar substitutes in moderation.Β You don’t have to deprive yourself entirely but aim only to use them occasionally. Limit yourself to 1 teaspoon of your favorite sweetener at a time – and try not to use it every day.
  • Go for the natural sugars.Β Sweeten drinks and foods with natural sweeteners like honey, molasses, and maple syrup while keeping moderation in mind.
  • Check food labels.Β Some foods (like certain yogurts and granola bars) come with sugar substitutes already included. Pay close attention to what’s in your food to make smart choices about what – if anything – you should be adding.

About the author

Partha Nandi, MD

Partha Nandi M.D., F.A.C.P. is the creator and host of the internationally syndicated medical lifestyle television show, Ask Dr. Nandi.

A practicing physician and a renowned international speaker, his appearances include TEDx, college commencements, numerous charity functions, premier medical meetings such as Digestive Disease Week, and nationally syndicated television programs such as The Katie Couric Show.

Dr. Nandi has partnered with the Ministry of Health in multiple countries, including Jamaica and India, and has collaborated with The World Health Organization in multiple areas throughout the globe, Dr. Nandi delivers passionate and inspiring talks to diverse audiences.

He continues to travel internationally for conferences and symposia, meeting with global health leaders on his quest to improve health care quality, access, and to empower people across the world β€œTo Be Your Own Health Hero.”

DrNandi@AskDrNandi.com

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