Non-Nutritive Sweeteners and Its Health Implications -a Review

Abstract

Nonnutritive sweeteners (NNS) have been widely used in various therapeutic and dairy products and have become an inseparable part of our routine life. They deliver far less calories and intense sweetness than their sugar-containing counterparts. The United States Food and Drug Administration recognizes Aspartame, saccharine, sucralose, neotame, acesulfame-K, and stevia safe for consumption by diabetics. They also aid in weight loss. However, there is inconclusive evidence to support most of their uses. In addition, the lack of interventional studies has proven inadequate to evaluate their efficacy in different populations like pregnant, breastfeeding women. Furthermore, the susceptible population comprising of diabetics, epileptic patients are more likely to sustain the deteriorating effects of NNS-containing products. The current review signifies the benefits and the potential risks of using them based on dietary guidelines.