WHO's Non-Sugar Sweetener Advisory

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has issued new guidelines that advise against using non-sugar sweeteners (NSS) as a healthy substitute for sugar.

NSS are low- or no-calorie sugar substitutes such as aspartame, saccharin, stevia, and others.
They are promoted for weight loss and blood glucose control in people with diabetes.

The WHO reviewed 283 studies on NSS consumption in adults and children.
Higher NSS consumption was linked to a 76% increase in obesity risk and a 0.14 kg/m2 rise in BMI.
There was no evidence of long-term advantages in terms of lowering body fat, and long-term use of NSS may raise the risk of Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, chronic renal disease, and cancer.
According to WHO, NSS should not be used for weight loss or lowering the risk of diet-related noncommunicable illnesses.

India has a high rate of obesity and a large number of persons with pre-diabetes.
Type 2 diabetes caused by lifestyle is becoming more common among young people.
WHO advises eating a well-balanced diet of minimally processed, unsweetened foods and beverages.

Before being adopted as national policy, WHO’s conditional guidance requires more discussion among policymakers.
Efforts should be made to teach children about food preferences and good eating habits.
Doctors can now provide patients more confident advice about NSS consumption.

Source: https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/health/explained-what-is-whos-advice-on-non-sugar-sweeteners/article66875381.ece