The World Health Organization (WHO) advises against using sugar substitutes for weight loss, according to new guidance. A systematic review found that non-sugar sweeteners (NSS) offer no long-term benefits in reducing body fat in both adults and children. While there may be a mild reduction in body weight in the short term, it’s not sustainable for long-term weight control, said Francesco Branca, WHO’s Director of Nutrition and Food Safety.
The review also indicated that prolonged use of NSS could lead to a slightly increased risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. WHO's recommendation, however, does not address safety concerns but emphasizes that non-sugar sweeteners do not effectively support weight loss or reduce the risk of non-communicable diseases.
The guidance applies to most people, excluding those with diabetes, as the studies did not include diabetic individuals. WHO’s recommendation is based on a review of 283 studies, which found that substituting sugar with NSS had a minimal impact on weight and calorie intake.
If you want to lose weight, do not use sugar substitutes.
The recommendation covers a wide range of sweeteners, including synthetic options and natural extracts like stevia and monk fruit. Even though some sweeteners are labeled as "natural," they may operate similarly to artificial sweeteners in the body, producing comparable results.
The WHO encourages people to focus on reducing overall sugar consumption rather than substituting it. Gradually cutting back on sugar, avoiding sweetened beverages, and choosing whole foods can help maintain a healthier diet and reduce dependency on added sugars and sweeteners.
