What you need to know about sugar substitutes

Sugar alternatives – get the lowdown

Sugar substitutes are natural or chemical sweeteners – sometimes referred to as artificial sweeteners – that replace sugar.

These can be helpful to use if you're trying to cut calories or if you have diabetes and need to watch your sugar intake.

Cancer and health problems

There is no proof that sugar substitutes cause cancer, according to the National Cancer Institute. There have also been numerous medical research studies on approved sugar substitutes; these have shown the sweet alternatives to be safe when used in moderation.

The only exception is people who have phenylketonuria (PKU), as they are unable to metabolise the sugar substitute, aspartame.

Even though sugar substitutes have fewer calories than what sugar does, it's best to limit them and focus on healthy food choices like fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean meats.

Common types of sugar substitutes

These are a few of the most popular sugar alternatives or artificial sweeteners found in the United States, most of which are also available in South Africa...

• Aspartame. Also known by brand names, Equal and Nutrasweet

• Acesulfame K. Also known as Sunett and Sweet One

• Stevia. Also known as PureVia, Truvia and SweetLeaf Sweetener.

• Saccharin. Also known as Sweet 'N Low and Sweet Twin.

• Sucralose. Also known as Splenda.

• Sugar alcohols. These include ingredients such as xylitol, maltitol and sorbitol.

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