The misconception that indulging in low-calorie sweets contributes to weight loss persists.
In the past decade, low-calorie desserts have been gaining popularity as people strive to maintain a healthier lifestyle and manage their weight. These sweet treats, while not directly causing weight loss, have become valuable for those seeking to regulate their diet and combat health issues like diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular diseases.
However, Anastasia Lebedeva, a leading lecturer at the Department of Dietology at the University of ROSBIOTECH, highlights that these sugar-reduced desserts should not be seen as a magic bullet for weight loss. Instead, they should complement a balanced diet and regular exercise regime to create a calorie deficit, essential for weight loss.
Sugar, traditionally a simple and quick source of energy, is often avoided by dieters due to its high calorie content and glycemic index. In response, manufacturers have introduced sugar substitutes like fructose, erythritol, stevia, aspartame, sucralose, and others. However, these artificial sweeteners come with their own set of drawbacks.
Consumers of low-calorie desserts employing these sweeteners may face an assortment of health risks, such as an elevated risk for cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, kidney, skin, and dental diseases. These sweeteners, despite being marketed as healthier alternatives, have not shown significant benefits and may even foster conditions for the development of type 2 diabetes.
Fortunately, the confectionery industry has devised a relatively safe solution—incorporating sweet protein into their low-calorie desserts. This innovation has been backed by clinical studies, ensuring its safety in preventing the onset of severe diseases.
Before the rise of low-calorie desserts, Russians were advised on measures to prevent cavities when indulging in sweets. Keep in mind, moderate consumption of these treats with sugar substitutes is generally safe for most people, but excessive intake or sensitivity to certain sweeteners can lead to various health issues.
When choosing low-calorie desserts, it's essential to consider the type of sweetener used and practice caution. Natural sweeteners, such as stevia or monk fruit, may be safer choices, but consumers should always remain aware of their health conditions and consult healthcare professionals when needed.
- Anastasia Lebedeva, a dietology lecturer at the University of ROSBIOTECH, suggests that low-calorie desserts with artificial sweeteners should not replace a balanced diet and regular exercise for weight loss.
- Despite being marketed as healthier alternatives, sugar substitutes used in low-calorie desserts have been linked to several potential health risks, including cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, kidney, skin, dental, and even type 2 diabetes.
- As a safer solution, the confectionery industry has started to incorporate sweet proteins into low-calorie desserts, a practice supported by clinical studies and deemed effective in preventing severe health issues.
