Artificial Simple Carbs & Their Potential Dangers

Here’s a list of artificial sweeteners to look out for on food labels. Sugar free, just like fat free, was a scam, much like all kinds of things we’re finding out about nowadays! We have learned now that artificial sweeteners and sugars do not help you lose weight. In fact. They make us fatter and less healthy.

The effects of artificial sugars on your digestive system over long term regular use can be harmful. It can cause metabolism harm and weight gain. Some artificial simple carbohydrates, especially artificial sweeteners, come with health warnings and concerns that are important to consider. Here’s a breakdown of potential health issues associated with some commonly used artificial sweeteners and additives:

1. High-Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS): The worst. It’s in EVERYTHING!
   • Health Concerns: Linked to obesity, diabetes, and inflammation. High consumption can also lead to insulin resistance and increased abdominal fat. In everything. Watch out for those pre-made sauces. Good luck finding BBQ sauce. lol
2. Aspartame & Neotame:
   • Health Concerns: Controversially linked to cancer and neurological disorders in various studies. It is approved by the FDA and many other health authorities under certain consumption limits. People with phenylketonuria (PKU) must avoid aspartame as they cannot metabolize phenylalanine effectively.
3. Saccharin:
   • Health Concerns: Early studies linked saccharin to bladder cancer in laboratory rats. This led to it once being listed and then removed from the U.S. National Toxicology Program’s list of carcinogens. It is considered safe for human consumption by the FDA but remains under scrutiny by some health groups.
4. Sucralose (Splenda):
   • Health Concerns: Some studies suggest it can alter glucose and insulin levels and may affect the gut microbiome. However, it is generally regarded as safe by the FDA.
5. Acesulfame K:
   • Health Concerns: Some studies have raised concerns about potential carcinogenic effects. The FDA has approved it for general use. They cite research that supports its safety.
6. Maltodextrin:
   • Health Concerns: It has a high glycemic index and can spike blood sugar levels quickly. This might contribute to increased risk of diabetes and insulin resistance if consumed in large quantities.
7. Xylitol, Sorbitol, Mannitol, Erythritol, and other Sugar Alcohols (Polyols):
   • Health Concerns: Although generally safe, they can cause digestive issues like gas, bloating, and diarrhea if consumed in large amounts. Xylitol is also highly toxic to dogs.
8. Stevia:
   • Health Concerns: Some forms of processed stevia might cause mild side effects like nausea or a feeling of fullness. The raw, unprocessed leaves of the stevia plant are not FDA-approved, though the refined stevia preparations are considered safe.
9. Dextrose:
   • Health Concerns: As a simple sugar, dextrose can quickly raise blood sugar levels. This rapid increase may concern individuals with diabetes or insulin resistance. Frequent consumption can also contribute to weight gain and increased risk of metabolic syndrome.
10. Polydextrose:
    • Health Concerns: Used as a fiber supplement and low-calorie sweetening agent, polydextrose can cause gastrointestinal symptoms like gas and bloating. These symptoms are more common when a person is not used to it or consumes it in large amounts.
11. Sucrose Polyester (Olestra): Does that say polyester?
    • Health Concerns: Used as a fat substitute in snacks and other foods, it is not absorbed by the body. This means it provides no calories. However, Olestra can interfere with the body’s ability to absorb essential fat-soluble vitamins. It can also cause digestive issues such as diarrhea and abdominal cramps.
12. Corn Syrup:
    • Health Concerns: Similar to high-fructose corn syrup, though it contains glucose instead of fructose. It can contribute to weight gain. It can lead to elevated blood sugar levels. It can also increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes if consumed in large amounts.
13. Invert Sugar:
    • Health Concerns: It is a mixture of glucose and fructose, made by splitting sucrose. Like other simple sugars, it can lead to spikes in blood sugar levels. Over time, it may contribute to obesity, heart disease, and diabetes.
14. Isomalt: New
    • Health Concerns: It is used as a sugar substitute in sugar-free products. While generally considered safe, it can cause digestive issues such as bloating and diarrhea. These issues occur if consumed in large amounts because it is a sugar alcohol.
15. Tagatose: NEW
    • Health Concerns: Tagatose is a low-calorie sweetener similar to fructose. It is generally recognized as safe. It can actually have a low glycemic index. However, like other sugar alcohols, it may cause digestive discomfort if consumed in excess.
16. Trehalose: NEW
    • Health Concerns: This sugar is digested into glucose. It is safe for most people. However, it can elevate blood sugar levels. Individuals with diabetes should monitor their consumption carefully.

What’s wrong with Honey? Organic Raw Sugar? Maple Syrup? Nothing. That’s what. You don’t need anything with that artificial crap in it.