Key points from article :
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has issued new guidance advising against the use of non-sugar sweeteners (NSS) for weight control.
WHO researchers examined 283 studies involving adults, children, pregnant women, and mixed populations.
The studies suggest that NSS do not provide any long-term benefits in reducing body fat in adults or children.
Short-term use of NSS may lead to minor weight loss, but only if their use results in a decrease in total energy intake.
Potential long-term undesirable effects of NSS use include an increased risk of type two diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and death.
NSS have no nutritional value and are not essential dietary factors, according to WHO.
The organization recommends reducing the overall sweetness of diets, starting early in life, for better health.
The new guideline, suggesting against the use of NSS for controlling body weight, applies to everyone except those with pre-existing diabetes.
