Many men and women with diabetes turn to artificial sweeteners to maintain the flavor of their food without sacrificing their health. Long touted as superior to sugar, artificial sweeteners run the gamut, from once-popular Splenda to ever-present Sweet ‘N Low. Artificial sweeteners were invented to appeal to a crowd that did not want to relinquish their love of sweets and treats, but also did not want to run the risk of an expanding waistline and declining health.

What Is an Artificial Sweetener?

An artificial sweetener is any sugar substitute that does not occur naturally. Stevia, for instance, does not fall under this umbrella because it is created using a plant rather than relying wholly upon chemical compounds created in a lab setting. Most artificial sweeteners are created to closely mimic both the texture and taste of refined white sugar, though they typically bear an aftertaste that distinctly identifies them.

Artificial sweeteners came into extensive use during World War 1, when sugar supplies were heavily rationed. During this time, sugar is hard to obtain, and the advent of artificial sugar came about. These compounds allowed people to experience the pleasure of sweet food without running out of ingredients that were already difficult to obtain. They were not initially created or intended for widespread, regular use.

The Problem With Artificial Sweeteners

What’s the problem with artificial sweeteners? There are several. Because the body responds to taste as well as composition, just altering the structure of food does not change your body’s response to it. When your tongue tastes something sweet, your body prepares for an influx of sugar. When eating artificial sweeteners, the influx never comes, which can confuse and overwhelm your body. Although this is problematic in a healthy body, it can be particularly challenging for diabetics by causing blood sugar imbalances.

Also, some studies have found links between consuming artificial sweeteners and increased weight gain, and even the onset of Alzheimer’s, both of which are already problematic for men and women with diabetes. Artificial sweeteners should be used cautiously rather than cavalierly, and may not be the holy grail to keeping sweets in your life.

Sweetening Your Food

Rather than relying on artificial sweeteners, opt for fewer sweets as a whole, and try to fill up on wholesome, filling foods. The lure of sweets is incredibly high, but your body needs a strong, healthy balance of sweet and savory foods from whole food sources. When you sweeten, use real sugar, and try to lessen your sweet tooth gradually. It may take time, but it is possible to retrain your body to delight in and crave healthy food.