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Disadvantages With Sucralose

Sucralose is a sugar-based, low calorie artificial sweetener. The product contains no calories and is a stable compound that can be used for cooking and baking. According to Foodreference.com sucralose is about 600 times sweeter than sugar and is commonly used in low-calorie fruit drinks, apple sauce and carbonated soft drinks. Consult a physician before using sucralose or any other artificial sweetener.

  1. Cravings

    • Low calorie sweeteners like sucralose have been linked to food cravings and weight gain in a small number of studies. However, the association between sweeteners and cravings hasn't been confirmed by larger scale studies so the amount of data to back this claim is insufficient.

    Migraines

    • According to WomentoWomen.com, sucralose might be a trigger for migraine headaches. The site notes data collected by the Sucralose Toxicity Center indicates taking the artificial sweetener can cause the onset of intense headaches in some individuals. However, since no long-term studies have been conducted linking sucralose and headaches there isn't enough evidence to make a strong connection between the sweetener and migraines.

    Other Side Effects

    • Muscle aches, swelling, diarrhea, dizziness, numbness and stomach pain are some side effects reported by people who have ingested sucralose. Other possible negative effects are bladder issues, intestinal cramping and panic-like agitation. Each of these maladies were reported by people who are sensitive or allergic to the artificial sweetener, underscoring the need for long term studies on non-allergic subjects to draw any significant correlations.

    Uses

    • Sucralose can help retain moisture and add volume in glazes, cheesecakes, fruit pie fillings and sweet sauces. Check nutrition labels before using or ingesting these baked goods. The texture, flavor and cooking time of a food containing sucralose may vary compared to similar foods made with sugar. The artificial sweetener is also used in dairy products like low-fat coffee creamer, light yogurt and low-fat flavored milk along with desserts like Popsicles, light ice cream, light pudding and light canned fruit.

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