7th August 2016
Researchers in Australia have found that the artificial sweeteners trick the brain in to thinking it is getting a sugary, high-calorie treat say the scientists.
When our bodies fail to get the sugary boost our brains expect they compensate by making us feel peckish and reach for more food.
This is a blow to millions of people who consume the calorie-free sugar substitutes, hoping to lose weight. The sweetener used in the research is sucralose, which is sold in the UK under the brand name Splenda. It is also found in Robinson’s Fruit Shoot – No Added Sugar drinks ( popular with children), Heinz Salad Cream 70% less fat, Wrigley’s Double mint Sugar Free Gum and Sugar Free Red Bull. And possibly other products – so check ingredient labels.
Little was previously known about the effect of sweeteners on the brain, the research team in Sydney, Australia also detected Hyperactivity and Insomnia. The Research Team Leader, Greg Neely said “When sweetness versus energy is out of balance, the brain recalibrates and increased calories consumed”.
The HACSG Food & Behaviour Diary is now available online.