This whole topc is really still in it’s infancy and what these products could potentially do to you. Now some of the above potential health problems are definitely not proven as fact in studies. However, some of them have been shown in animal studies given high doses.
Feel free to do some research, you’ll find hoardes of people that attribute the use of artificial sweeteners over the years with all sorts of illnesses in themselves or in family members.
Regardless of the fact that any real health problems for actual human use are not proven yet, I don’t know about you, but I’d rather protect myself and my family and steer clear of these possibly dangerous artificial chemicals.
Of course, despite all of the health issues potentially associated with artificial sweeteners, the companies that sell the products will continue to claim that they are fully safe. Don’t believe them! The bottom line is that the body was not designed to deal with foreign substances like artificial sweeteners. Take my word on that one.
So what are your options for alternatives? Well, your best alternatives for sugar or corn syrup are either natuaral honey, or organic maple syrup. Even though these alternatives still have the same amount of calories as sugar or corn syrup… honey and maple syrup, actually provide some nutrients and antioxidants, so it’s not just empty calories.
Empty calories such as white refined sugar stimulate your appetite more because your body is lacking nutrients.
Now I know your still thinking that you’d like to still save on calories but avoid the nasty artificial sweeteners.
Good news… You can!
It’s called Stevia.
Stevia is not artificial like the other chemical sweeteners I mentioned above. Stevia is a natural non-caloric herb that’s been used for thousands of years in some parts of the world. It is a South American herb and when dried into a powder, has a sweetness about 200-300 times stronger than sugar.
One problem I’ve noticed with using Stevia is that the pure powder is a very powerful sweetener, so you can easily use too much. However, I’ve found some good Stevia products that use a bulking agent added so that you can measure out the stevia powder in direct comparison to measuring sugar.
I’ve yet to see any negative reports or health concerns regarding stevia and only positive potential health benefits.
I definitely give Stevia my seal of approval. Do yourself a favor (and your family), and if you are currently an artificial sweetener junkie, please consider switching to stevia.
Until next time, keep on training gang.
Scott
