Does your health supplement have artificial sweeteners and flavourings? Well, the co-founder of a health supplement brand has claimed that some of these substances, which are commonly found in supplements and food products, should be "completely avoided" as they are unsafe!
In a recent YouTube video, the co-founder of nutraceutical brand Miduty, Palak Midha, was asked by internet personality Raj Shamani what were the five ingredients that one should avoid completely when buying health supplements.
Midha listed Aspartame, Acesulfame Potassium (Ace-K), Sucralose, and artificial flavours as substances to be entirely avoided. She added that sugar alcohols, specifically Xylitol and Sorbitol, were safe to consume as they have a lower caloric content than sugar and do not lead to blood sugar level spikes.
First Check decided to fact-check these claims to separate scientific evidence from personal opinion.
CLAIM #1:
Artificial sweeteners and flavourings, such as aspartame, acesulfame potassium (Ace-K), sucralose, and artificial flavours, should be totally avoided.
FACT:
The prevailing scientific evidence does not support the claim that artificial sweeteners and flavourings should be completely avoided, as regulatory authorities have deemed them safe for consumption within established limits.
Midha listed artificial sweeteners such as Aspartame, Acesulfame Potassium (Ace-K), and Sucralose as complete no-no's, that should be avoided at all costs. Lets look at each of these separately, to sift facts from myths.
Aspartame is one of the most studied food additives. Despite concerns, numerous regulatory agencies, including the FDA and EFSA, have deemed it safe for consumption within recommended limits. While some studies have suggested potential links to cancer or other health issues, large-scale reviews have not found conclusive evidence to support these claims.
Similarly, Ace-K has been approved for use by regulatory agencies worldwide. Some studies have raised concerns about its potential to affect gut bacteria or insulin response, but evidence is not conclusive.
Sucralose is also generally recognized as safe by health authorities. Some recent studies have suggested it might affect gut bacteria or insulin sensitivity, but results are mixed and more research is needed.
Artificial flavours are synthesized compounds that mimic natural flavours. Natural identical flavours are chemically identical to natural flavours but are produced synthetically. Both types undergo safety evaluations before approval. There's no scientific consensus that artificial or natural identical flavours need to be totally avoided. Moderation and balance are key. As research continues, it's important to stay informed about new findings and recommendations from reputable health authorities.
CLAIM #2:
Sugar alcohols do not lead to spike in blood sugar.
FACT:
Sugar alcohols have minimal effects on blood sugar levels, lower than normal sugar, but that does not mean sugar alcohols can be consumed without limits.
In the video, Midha claimed that sugar alcohols such as Xylitol and Sorbitol, which are used as low-calories sweeteners, are completely safe.
"Any sugar alcohol, that ends with -ol, they are safe. Very safe. They do not cause blood sugar levels to spike," she claimed.
These sweeteners have several potential benefits, including lower calorie content compared to sugar, less impact on blood sugar levels, and potential dental benefits (especially xylitol).
However, while it is true that sugar alcohols' effect on blood sugar levels is significantly less than regular sugar, one should be aware that they do have some effect on blood sugar as they too are a carbohydrate. So while they're often considered suitable for people with diabetes, even these should be consumed in moderation.
Also read: Explainer: Why protein supplements can be harmful
