Facts for Prelims:
Source: TH
Context: The WHO’s new guidelines advise against the use of non-sugar sweeteners (NSS) as a “healthy” alternative to sugar.
| Non-sugar sweeteners (NSS) | |
| Meaning | They are marketed as low or no-calorie alternatives to free sugars which aid in weight loss, and in controlling blood glucose in individuals with diabetes. |
| Categories | Aspartame (to sweeten diet colas), advantame, cyclamates, neotame, saccharin (to sweeten tea or coffee), sucralose, stevia, etc. |
| Rise in Popularity | In 2015, when WHO said that a high intake of free sugars is linked to weight gain and obesity.
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| WHO’s new guidelines? | NSS should not be used as a means of achieving weight control or reducing the risk of diet-related non-communicable diseases. Long-term use of NSS could lead to increased risk of Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, chronic kidney disease and cancer. |
| Concerns for India | One in 9 women and one in 25 men are obese (NFHS5), and an estimated 25 million people living with pre-diabetes in India (WHO). |
| WHO’s nutritional advice | Having alternative foods which are minimally processed, unsweetened foods and beverages.
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