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March 23, 2024
A groundbreaking study known as the SWEET project delved into the effects of incorporating sweeteners into a healthy, low-sugar diet to promote weight management following rapid weight loss. The year-long trial involved 341 adults with overweight or obesity and 38 overweight children across Denmark, Spain, Greece, and The Netherlands.
Participants embarked on a journey that began with a two-month phase focused on rapid weight loss, followed by a 10-month period split into two groups:
- Group A: Participants adhered to a healthy diet with less than 10% of calories from added sugar, incorporating foods and drinks containing sweeteners.
- Group B: Participants followed the same healthy diet but without the addition of sweeteners.
Throughout the study, participants provided insights into their diet, eating habits, physical activity, and quality of life. Their weight, body measurements, and markers for diabetes and heart disease were meticulously recorded at regular intervals.
After 6 months, the group consuming sweeteners reported greater diet satisfaction, improved mood, and fewer cravings for sweet foods compared to the non-sweetener group. Interestingly, after 12 months, participants who avoided sweeteners showed an increased liking for other calorie-containing sweet foods.
Moreover, participants utilizing sweeteners experienced slightly better weight maintenance after one year compared to those who did not. Additionally, there were no significant differences in markers for diabetes and heart disease between the two groups.
Lead study author Clarissa Dakin emphasized the evolving perceptions regarding sweeteners throughout the study. Those who incorporated sweeteners tended to view them more positively for health outcomes by the end of the trial, while the opposite trend was observed among participants who avoided sweeteners.
The findings shed light on the ongoing debate surrounding sweeteners’ role in weight management and overall health. While some advocate for their use as low-calorie alternatives to sugar, others express concerns about their safety and long-term health effects.
Courtney Pelitera, a registered dietitian, expressed optimism about the study’s implications for healthcare professionals and their patients. She underscored the significance of diet satisfaction in fostering long-term adherence to healthy eating habits.
As researchers continue to explore the complex relationship between sweeteners, weight management, and health outcomes, the SWEET project offers valuable insights into the potential benefits of incorporating sweeteners into a balanced diet for weight maintenance.
While further research is warranted to elucidate the long-term health effects of sweeteners, the study’s findings underscore the importance of personalized dietary approaches that prioritize satisfaction and sustainability in achieving optimal health outcomes.
The SWEET project contributes to ongoing efforts to understand the impact of sweeteners on weight management and overall health, offering valuable insights for healthcare professionals and individuals striving to achieve their health goals.
