Exploring the Safety of Sweeteners as Sugar Replacements: Insights from Chulalongkorn University's Faculty of Pharmacy

    As humans, we are drawn to the delightful taste of sweetness, but it is crucial to recognize that excessive sugar consumption poses risks to our health. Consequently, there is an ongoing quest to find suitable sweeteners as sugar alternatives, satisfying our desire for sweetness while minimizing calorie intake.

    Recently, the World Health Organization (WHO) released a significant academic paper that shed light on the potential adverse health effects of using sweeteners instead of sugar, particularly when consumed continuously over long periods. In summary, the paper emphasized that sweeteners should not be used as substitutes for sugar to control weight or reduce the risk of chronic non-communicable diseases like diabetes, high blood pressure, and various cardiovascular conditions.

    We must understand that being overweight is not solely a result of consuming sugary treats or sugar itself. Merely replacing sugar with sweeteners without addressing other dietary factors, such as fat intake and overall energy balance, will not lead to the desired weight management outcomes.

    Excessive weight or obesity inevitably elevates the risk of numerous diseases. The recent findings presented by the World Health Organization have left many people astonished. The information suggests that long-term consumption of sweeteners as sugar substitutes may heighten the risk of diabetes, coronary heart disease, and premature death. Additionally, the use of sweeteners has been associated with higher body mass index (BMI) and increased obesity rates. This revelation has created confusion among health-conscious individuals or those attempting to control their sugar intake by opting for sweeteners.

    The full paper published by the World Health Organization consists of over 200 pages, meticulously detailing the findings gathered from approximately 300 research pieces. It explores the health effects of various sweeteners, including both well-established options and a dozen newly developed alternatives like acesulfame K, aspartame, advantame, cyclamates, neotame, saccharin, sucralose, and stevia.

    It is important to note that each sweetener has its intricacies, and the academic community continues to engage in reasonable debates regarding their impact on health. If readers wish to delve into the specifics of the sweeteners they use, they can refer to informative resources such as https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240046429. Furthermore, in the coming weeks, articles will further expand on the subject, providing additional details and discussion points. I believe this is a story worth sharing as it significantly influences our health decisions and encourages thoughtful consideration in choosing our dietary preferences.

    However, it is crucial not to dismiss sweeteners entirely. Sweeteners still have a role to play in managing energy intake from food and preventing blood sugar spikes. Nevertheless, caution must be exercised, as assuming that any amount of sweetener can replace sugar without consequences is misguided. Sweeteners should be used sparingly and judiciously if we aspire to maintain good health. Gradually altering our eating habits to reduce our inclination for excessive sweetness is vital.

    For those seeking guidance on reducing their sugar intake but unsure about the appropriate amount, the Faculty of Pharmacy at Chulalongkorn University recommends following the nutrition flag's guidelines for optimal health among Thai individuals. These guidelines advocate consuming as little sugar as possible, preferably no more than six teaspoons (24 grams) per day.

    Chulalongkorn University's Faculty of Pharmacy remains committed to providing valuable insights and information as our understanding of sweeteners and their impact on health continues to evolve. Stay tuned for upcoming articles that will delve deeper into this subject. This knowledge is crucial for our health planning and prompts us to make informed decisions about our dietary choices.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nattada Areepiam and Asst. Prof. Dr. Bodin Tiwasuwan

Faculty of Pharmacy Chulalongkorn University