Artificial Sweeteners

You could be forgiven [blank] being completely confused when it comes to consuming low-calorie or artificial sweeteners. Some days, the headlines are full of praise for their beneficial effects [blank] health, helping people to lose weight by replacing their favorite sugary drinks and treats with similar-tasting diet versions. At other times, we are told low-calorie sweeteners [blank] linked to serious health conditions, from rising blood pressure to an increased risk of type 2 diabetes. Just last month, a large study of French adults claimed to have found an association between consuming sweeteners and an increased risk [blank] heart disease. Allison Sylvetsky, an associate professor at George Washington University, is trying to unpick the science involved in this controversial topic. Her job is shedding light on whether artificial sweeteners can give us the sweet fix we seek [blank] helping us to maintain our weight and prevent chronic disease, or whether they should be handled with care.