The Calorie Control Council Responds to the Dr. Oz Show, “Artificial Sweeteners: Are They Making You Sick”

Misinformation in the Doctor Oz Show segment titled, “Artificial Sweeteners: Are They Making You Sick,” is a disservice to viewers who look to the show for guidance and accurate information. There is a vast amount of scientific research and expertise supporting the safety and use of low-calorie sweeteners. Furthermore, statements released earlier this year by the American Heart Association, the American Diabetes Association, and the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics all support the use of low-calorie sweeteners in the context of a healthful diet.

The Calorie Control Council cites the following as serious inaccuracies in the Dr. Oz show:

• Studies that have examined any possible link between low-calorie sweeteners and metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular outcomes have failed to prove cause and effect.
• Human studies have demonstrated that low-calorie sweeteners do not affect insulin levels. A review article published in 2010 by Renwick and Molinary found, “there is no consistent evidence that low-energy sweeteners increase appetite or subsequent food intake, cause insulin release or affect blood pressure in normal subjects.”
• There is no scientific evidence to support Dr. Oz’s allegations of addiction to low-calorie sweeteners, increased cravings of sweets due to low-calorie sweeteners, or that low-calorie sweeteners fool the body temporarily.
• Low-calorie sweeteners are not responsible for laxation. Excessive consumption of polyols (sugar alcohols), which are low-digestible carbohydrates, may cause gastrointestinal symptoms, such as gas or laxative effects, similar to reactions to beans and certain high-fiber foods. Gastrointestinal symptoms depend on an individual’s sensitivity to a particular ingredient and the other foods eaten at the same time
• Finally, there is no scientific evidence to support Dr. Oz’s allegation that low-calorie sweeteners cause bladder spasms or hyperactivity. Any increase in the frequency of urination experienced by someone consuming multiple cups of coffee sweetened with low-calorie sweeteners or diet sodas is likely due to the volume of fluids consumed, not the low-calorie sweeteners in these drinks.

Low-calorie sweeteners are some of the most thoroughly studied food ingredients in the food supply. The safety of low-calorie sweeteners has been reaffirmed time and again by leading health and regulatory groups worldwide. For more expert opinions on low-calorie sweeteners, click here.