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If you are hoping to lose weight but don’t want to sacrifice your morning coffee, you might be tempted to start using artificial sweeteners. With less calories than traditional sugar, they can be a tempting option. However, there are some serious downsides to artificial sweeteners that you might want to consider before making the switch.
Keep reading for everything you need to know!
Artificial Sweeteners
Although you might think artificial sweeteners are a good alternative to sugar (especially if you are trying to lose weight), the truth is less simple.
According to Healthline, common artificial sweeteners include aspartame, sucralose, saccharin, neotame, and acesulfame potassium. With that in mind, avoiding sweetener brands with these ingredients listed is a good idea.
These artificial sweeteners can have a dangerous effect on your diet, metabolism, and appetite.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, "Artificial sweeteners are typically 200 to 600 times sweeter than sugar. They stimulate your taste buds, go to your brain, affect your hormones and slow your metabolism."
Plus, artificial sweeteners, like sugar, are addictive. "But artificial sweeteners may be likelier to make you get hungry, eat more throughout the day and develop diabetes," the article continues.
Instead of relying on artificial sweeteners, try turning to natural sweeteners like Stevia, honey, or maple syrup. By using these sweeteners, you can avoid the bitter taste of black coffee without having to sacrifice your diet.
