Are sugar substitutes healthy? Research doesn’t offer comforting answers

The long-term effects of sugar substitutes are largely unknown. Most of the safety studies done are short-term because it is difficult and costly to do years-long trials. (stock.adobe.com)

To satisfy the public’s craving for sweetness and concern about the health effects of sugar, food companies increasingly have turned to sugar substitutes. Natural and artificial sweeteners are added to everything from soda pop to toothpaste, lip balm to snack items. 

Now, studies are raising concerns about the health effects of these substitutes.