Why Do We Ask About Artificial Sweeteners?
When a patient comes to Executive Medicine of Texas for their half-day physical exam, the physician will have already reviewed their 24-page questionnaire. The full scope of one’s health is best determined when viewed from every angle. Asking about symptoms is pointless unless there is a desire to find the root cause. Some people are surprised when they’re asked about their use of artificial sweeteners.
While diet sodas and artificially sweetened foods have become trendy, they certainly are not helping with the obesity, diabetes and other health crises in the U.S. A recent study published in the journal Pediatric Obesity looked at over 7,000 students and found that those who consumed diet sodas often added about 200 or more calories to their daily intake. Even a small amount of artificial sweetener use triggered the increased consumption of other foods. The same holds true for adults, but the caloric intake may be higher.
Other studies have shown the link between artificial sweeteners and the gut microbiome. While sweeteners such as aspartame and saccharin lead the charge in toxic effects, according to research at Oxford, even the polyols such as maltitol and xylitol reach the large intestine and increase the bifidobacteria. Another recent study collaborated between Singapore and Israel proved that as little as 1mg of common artificial sweeteners can have a toxic effect on the bacterial balance of the gut.
Why is this important? The microbiome of the gut is now being referred to as the second brain. When the balance of the gut flora is off, so is the rest of the body’s systems. Depression, weight gain, cognitive decline, headaches and more have been linked to a disruption of the gut microbiome. Not surprisingly, these have also been well documented as side effects of artificial sweeteners.
The best advice we give our patients is to avoid artificial sweeteners altogether. Replace diet sodas with flavored or sparkling water. Read labels, even down to the toothpaste. Yes, believe it or not, many popular brands of toothpaste contain saccharin. Good health starts with small changes. Small changes start with being informed. At Executive Medicine of Texas, education is all part of the process and journey toward better health.
Bio: Judy Gaman, MSPS, BSHS is the CEO of Executive Medicine of Texas. She is an award-winning author, speaker, and radio show host who believes everyone deserves a chance for a longer and healthier life. You can learn more about Executive Medicine of Texas by visiting www.EMTexas.com
