Low-Calorie Sweeteners: The Science Behind Alternatives to Sugar with John Sievenpiper

Do you crave all things sweet, but know too much sugar isn’t good for you? You’re not alone. Our taste for sweetness starts early on, yet current health advice pushes limiting sugar. Is there a way to enjoy sweet flavors without unwanted calories and consequences?Join us as we explore the science behind low-calorie sweeteners. You’ll get myth-busting truths on how these sugar substitutes impact your health and weight loss efforts. We’ll also dive into the options available so you can find the best match for your tastebuds and lifestyle.Our special guest is Dr. John Sievenpiper, an associate professor in the Department of Nutritional Sciences at the University of Toronto. He shares insights from his extensive research on carbohydrates, sugars, and alternative sweeteners.By the end, you’ll feel empowered to make sweet swaps tailored to your taste and health goals. There are more choices than you realized when it comes to satisfying your sweet tooth in a better-for-you way.Listen in and learn about:Why we're naturally inclined to crave sweet flavorsHow diet drinks stack up against plain water for weight lossWhy individual studies can seem conflicting, and the power of meta-analysisWhether insulin rises in response to non-caloric sweetness (the answer may surprise you)Actionable tips for substituting added sugars with lower calorie optionsThe biggest misconception about alternative sweetenersHow to pick the best sweetener that match with your tastebudsMentioned on the episode:JAMA Network Open 2022Connect with John Sievenpiper on LinkedIn