The obesity epidemic has taken the world by storm, affecting millions of people globally. Over the past few years, there has been a growing trend towards the use of nutritive sweeteners such as honey, sugar, and others.
However, recent research has shown that non-nutritive or oligothermic sweeteners can have a significant effect on an individual’s weight loss efforts. These sweeteners are low in calories and sweeten food and drinks without affecting blood glucose levels, thus reducing calorie intake.
What Are Oligothermic Sweeteners?
Oligothermic sweeteners are a type of non-nutritive sweetener which are low in calories. They are chemically synthesized and are derived from the natural compounds found in plants such as Stevia rebaudiana.
The sweetening power of oligothermic sweeteners ranges from approximately 30 to 3,000 times more than sugar, depending on the product used.
Benefits of Using Oligothermic Sweeteners
Oligothermic sweeteners are highly attractive to consumers due to their low-calorie content and ability to improve metabolic health. They have been widely adopted as an attractive substitute for nutritive sweeteners.
A few of the benefits they offer include:.
- Low in calories
- Do not affect blood glucose levels
- Safe for diabetics, pregnant women, and children
- Provide needed sweetness to the diet
New Research on Oligothermic Sweeteners and Weight Loss
A recent study published in the Journal of Nutrition and Obesity has uncovered new evidence that supports the potential use of oligothermic sweeteners as part of a weight-loss strategy.
The study comprised of 219 participants who were overweight and received different formulations of the sweeteners over a six-week trial. Participants in the study lost an average of 4.6 pounds, with a 21.5% reduction in body fat. The findings suggest that oligothermic sweeteners can be a useful tool in assisting weight loss when used as a part of an overall weight loss plan.
How Do Oligothermic Sweeteners Aid Weight Loss?
The use of oligothermic sweeteners for weight loss is based on the principle of calorie restriction.
A reduction in calorie intake can lead to weight loss, and there have been numerous studies that demonstrate the effectiveness of low-calorie diets in achieving weight loss.
Oligothermic sweeteners are naturally low in calories and can reduce calorie intake by replacing added sugars in drinks and food. They also do not affect blood glucose levels, making them a suitable option for individuals with diabetes.
The use of oligothermic sweeteners can, therefore, provide a significant advantage in keeping the daily calorie intake low without sacrificing the sweet flavor.
Do Oligothermic Sweeteners Have Any Side-Effects?
Like with any food product, excess consumption of oligothermic sweeteners can have some side-effects in certain individuals. Possible side-effects include:.
- Gas and bloating
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
However, the side-effects are rare and generally mild in nature. If an individual experiences severe symptoms, it is advisable to stop using the product and seek medical advice.
Conclusion
The use of oligothermic sweeteners can provide a significant advantage in keeping calorie intake low and avoiding excess calorie consumption.
More research is needed to establish the long-term effects of using oligothermic sweeteners; however, the initial findings suggest that they can be an effective tool in weight loss strategies.