Research review finds no link between sweeteners and weight gain

A research review led by the University of Ljubljana, Wageningen University & Research, and the University of Leeds suggests that non-nutritive sweeteners do not negatively impact weight management or cardiometabolic health.

The findings, which synthesized evidence from five studies conducted under the SWEET, SWITCH, and Sweet-Tooth research consortia, challenge previous concerns that sugar substitutes might increase cravings for sweets or lead to higher caloric intake.

Graham Finlayson, a psychologist at the University of Leeds, noted that these results from randomized controlled trials differ from earlier studies that had linked artificial sweeteners to negative health outcomes. Specific investigations, such as the SWEET cookie and beverage studies, examined how low-calorie sweeteners affect hunger, cravings, and blood sugar levels in adults with obesity.