In these times of calorie-sin and sweet-tooth-guilt, artificial sweeteners seem just the way out. They cut down on calories, help you stay in shape and control your blood sugar levels even as you indulge yourself. For Indians, who, on an average, consume an equivalent of 20-25 teaspoons of sugar a day, sweeteners are obviously an attractive alternative. But how good are they for your health?

Several studies carried out by the Delhi Diabetics Research Centre (DDRC) question the long-term effects of the sweeteners. Says Dr A. K. Jhingan, chairman, DDRC, “It is believed that sweeteners are safe substitutes for sugar and food made out of them can be had in any amounts. That’s untrue.”

Over the years, all variants of artificial sweeteners like Sugar Free, Equal and Splenda etc. have undergone long periods of review and debate. Experts insist that the slew of artificial sweeteners flooding the market be taken only under medical supervision. Dr S.K. Wangnoo, senior consultant, department of endocrinology, Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, suggests that one should not consume artificial sweeteners more than four to five times a day. “These chemical combinations also do great harm to your vital organs and hence call for medical supervision,” he says.

In studies carried out by DDRC, parents of Type I and Type II diabetic children complained of changes in the behaviour of children when they consumed a lot of diet drinks, sugar-free chocolates and other items. “Many of the children turned aggressive, complained of lack of sleep and were found to be short-tempered,” said Dr Jhingan.

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