The most commonly used artificial sweeteners are saccharin (Sweet’N Low) and aspartame (NutraSweet and Equal).
Suspicion that artificial sweeteners might cause cancer arose when studies showed that laboratory animals exposed to saccharin developed bladder cancer. Subsequent studies, however, have not been able to provide a clear link between saccharin and cancer in people. The same is true for aspartame and cancer. However doctor say that as long as you don’t consume too much artificial sweetener, the particular one you use is a matter of personal taste.
If you’re interested in switching to a more natural sweetener, you can try the herb stevia, rice syrup, honey, or even maple syrup in small amounts. Remember to look at the number of calories per serving, however, and make your decision accordingly. Fruit juice is another alternative sweetener that can be used in recipes, as are pineapple chunks and mashed prunes.
Marianna Szoke
www.mariannaszoke.com
