New Research Analyzing 35 Years of Data Confirms Positive Effects of Low-Calorie Sweeteners in Weight Loss

ATLANTA, May 13, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- A new study recently presented at the Experimental Biology 2014 Conference in San Diego, CA found the use of low-calorie sweeteners resulted in reductions in body weight. Researchers also concluded that the use of products containing low-calorie sweeteners do not lead to weight gain or cravings.  For the meta-analysis study, researchers Dr. Vanessa Perez and Dr. Paige Miller reviewed 35 years' worth of independent studies on the relationship between low-calorie sweeteners and weight status.

During a presentation of their research on April 27, Dr. Perez noted that the study is the most comprehensive scientific evaluation to date of low-calorie sweeteners and body weight and composition. The complete study has been accepted for publication later this year in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (AJCN). 

"Based on the gold standard study design in medical research — the randomized controlled trial —  the results show that using low-calorie sweeteners resulted in statistically significant reductions in body weight, BMI, fat mass, and waist circumference," says Dr. Perez. With recent headlines stirring debate around the benefits of sweetener alternatives, Perez added the data confirms that using low-calorie sweeteners "does not cause weight gain and may be a useful tool in helping people comply with weight loss and weight management plans." Perez also added that the data does not support recent hypotheses that low-calorie sweeteners increase appetite or sweet cravings.

Several leading health care organizations, including the American Diabetes Association (ADA) and the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND), support the use of low-calorie sweeteners as tools in weight and diabetes management.

"The conclusions from this review support decades of research showing that the use of low-calorie sweeteners can be beneficial in weight loss, while also debunking recent hypotheses of weight gain and cravings," said Haley Stevens, Ph.D., President of the Calorie Control Council. "Along with proper diet and exercise, consumption of products with low-calorie sweeteners can be part of a healthy lifestyle."

For more information on low-calorie sweeteners and healthy diets, visit CalorieControl.org, TheSkinnyOnLowCal.org, and CaloriesCount.com.

About the Calorie Control Council
The Calorie Control Council, established in 1966, is an international association representing the low- and reduced-calorie food and beverage industry. Today it represents manufacturers and suppliers of low- and reduced-calorie foods and beverages, including manufacturers and suppliers of more than two dozen different alternative sweeteners, fibers and other low-calorie, dietary ingredients. For helpful tips on weight loss and controlling calories, along with tools and truths on healthy eating and exercise for life, visit the Council's main website at CalorieControl.org or the Council's blog at TheSkinnyOnLowCal.org

SOURCE Calorie Control Council