Geneviève Pilon: It’s probably not the miracle solution as you might think at first glance. The picture is not so clear, but epidemiological studies show that we do not necessarily see an improvement in diabetes and obesity among people who consume more artificial sweeteners. According to intervention studies, certain artificial sweeteners increase glucose intolerance, therefore prediabetes. It can be seen in animals and it can be seen in some people, but not in everyone.
GP: It’s a lot to do with gut bacteria. In some people, this will unbalance the intestinal microbiota and make them more sensitive to the sugar they subsequently consume. Other people, however, will be less affected. Some sweeteners should also be monitored more than others. Stevia [a substitute extracted from stevia leaves used in desserts and drinks] shows rather neutral or even beneficial effects.
Liliane Malczewski: There are sugar substitutes called sugar alcohols, such as xylitol, mannitol and sorbitol. Xylitol is extracted from birch bark. Where it becomes interesting for the oral and dental aspect is that studies show that xylitol – which contains around 50% of the calories of sugar – can have an anticariogenic effect [it limits the proliferation of bacteria, and therefore caries]. Dentists now will recommend xylitol gum to people with dry mouths; This will stimulate salivary flow and have a positive impact on cavities. If you consume too much, on the other hand, you can have digestive effects, such as bloating: there are therefore maximum thresholds to respect.
LM: Of course, for my part, I will answer without sugar. Especially since if you keep the candy in your mouth for a long time, it increases the cariogenic effect even more.
GP: From a metabolic standpoint, if it’s just a few mints a day, I don’t think that’s what would cause an obesity problem. And I wouldn’t lump sugar alcohols in the same category as non-caloric sweeteners like saccharin, sucralose, and aspartame. That might be a good compromise.
GP: Occasionally it’s okay, but from my point of view, with or without sugar, it’s a bit dangerous. Sugary drinks are one of the causes of the rise in obesity. As for the option of replacing sugar, it depends on which artificial sweetener. According to studies, the artificial sugars that are the most damaging to glucose metabolism are saccharin and sucralose. For aspartame, it is not so clear because the effects seem to vary depending on the individual.
GP: The studies so far seem to indicate that stevia and molecules isolated from this plant would be a safer choice for health. That said, regardless of their nature, non-caloric sweeteners – very stimulatory of sweet taste – encourage our consumption of sugar. In an ideal world, I think we should consume less sugar and opt more for natural sugars like maple syrup. Its effects on metabolic health are less significant than those of refined sugar.
LM: It is certain that the sugar substitute will have less cariogenic effects, but the fact remains that the strong carbonization of these drinks can in itself cause a loss of enamel, therefore tooth erosion. It’s very acidic. The watchword would be to avoid both, especially for young children, whose tooth enamel is very thin.