Can artificial sweetener make you hungrier & fatter?

Artificial sweeteners imitate sugar

These sweeteners may cause confusion in the body's metabolic reactions because they stimulate taste receptors similarly to sugar yet don't supply energy.

May cause hunger

Research indicates that within two hours after consumption, sweeteners such as sucralose stimulate the brain's appetite centre, hence increasing hunger.

Can increase food intake

The activation of leptin-related neurones by sweeteners may raise hunger thresholds, causing people to eat more in order to feel full.

Associated with fat gain

Long-term research indicates that using sweeteners frequently is associated with up to 70% greater rates of obesity and an increase in body fat.

Potential danger for diabetes

Consuming artificially sweetened beverages on a daily basis may raise the risk of type 2 diabetes, while the exact effect of chemicals is unknown.

Conflicting research findings

While some short-term studies indicate sweeteners aid in weight loss, the benefits differ depending on the length of time and the diet.

Expert advice

The UK Nutrition Committee recommends cutting back on sugar and sweetener intake, particularly in youngsters.

Moderation is key