I can't tell you how many times I walk down the aisles of the grocery store and cringe when I see all the sugar free, calorie free "foods"... The problem is, for years we have been told to avoid sugar - but eliminating sugar is impossible... Tah-dah artificial sweeteners seem like the perfect solution, right? Not so fast my friends... These zero-calorie chemicals, which are often added to foods and beverages marketed as weight-loss friendly, are a hot topic. They're use is highly controversial, and they're blamed for just about everything from headaches, to weight gain, to cancer.
Over the years, more artificial sweeteners—along with more controversy—have made their way to the market in an effort to satisfy the human need for sweet-tasting foods while minimizing calorie consumption. There are six FDA-approved artificial sweeteners currently on the market: acesulfame potassium (acesulfame K), aspartame, saccharin, sucralose, neotame, and advantame.
I could go on and on about the studies linking artificial sweeteners to cancer and other diseases - these studies, like most are controversial. But for the purpose of what I do, I want to talk to you about its effects on your waistline.
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| Source: Yale Journal of Biology and Medicine June 8 2010 |
Our bodies are so used to associating sweet taste with calories - so what happens when we switch it up and sweet taste means zero calories? Animal models certainly indicate that artificial sweeteners can impair the innate ability to regulate caloric intake. Rats who are fed with artificial sweeteners consistently gain more weight than rats who are fed with glucose. Additionally, the rats don’t tend to lose the excess weight, even after their diets are switched back to glucose.
Research over the last 30 years have shown that artificial sweeteners stimulate appetite, increase cravings for carbs, and produce a variety of metabolic dysfunctions that promote fat storage and weight gain.
I am a firm believer that we need to get as close to nature as possible when it comes to the food we consume. I believe artificial sweeteners are chemicals that disrupt the micro-gut, and increases cravings. And I am a believer that artificial sweeteners are just as addictive as sugar. So how do we start breaking this cycle? I have found success in using Shakeology daily. A low calorie, no artificial sweetener that satisfies my cravings while increasing my energy.
I challenge you to read the labels, look past the calorie content and educate yourself about what is fueling your cells. If you need help learning how to eat a better and more wholesome diet for you and your family. If you are ready to make a change, I am here to help you!
