Sugar Free Tablets and Side Effects

In the quest for healthier alternatives, sugar free tablets have emerged as seemingly convenient solutions for those seeking to cut down on their sugar intake. Promoted as aids in weight management and diabetes control, these tablets have found their way into countless households. However, behind the facade of sweetness without calories, a lesser-known realm of potential sugar free tablets side effects lurks. In this exploration, we delve into the complexities of sugar free tablets. We will unravel some sugar free tablets side effects that may help prevent the harmful effects of sugar free. Let’s begin!

What are Sugar Free Tablets?

Sugar-free tablets, often referred to as artificial sweeteners or sugar substitutes, are chemical compounds used to provide the sweetness of food and beverages without adding traditional sugars.

The main benefit of using these tablets is that they have very low calories. Yet provide considerable sweetness. Common examples include saccharin, aspartame, sucralose, and steviol glycosides. 

These alternatives are frequently used by individuals seeking to reduce their calorie and sugar intake, particularly those with diabetes or those aiming to manage their weight.  While generally recognized as safe by regulatory bodies, it’s crucial for individuals to be aware of potential side effects and consume these substitutes in moderation.

Types of Sugar Free Tablets

There are a few sweeteners that are allowed by the Indian Medical Association (IMA). They are as follows:

• Aspartame
• Sucralose
• Stevia
• Neotame
• Aspartame-acesulfame salt
• Advantame
• Neohesperidin
• Saccharin
• Acesulfame potassium

Read More: Can Type 2 Diabetes be Reversed Permanently?

Sugar Free Tablets Side Effects

Talking of sugar free tab side effects, the permissible limits vary according to body weight. The FDA has set variable daily intake limits on different sweeteners. 

For example, for aspartame, it’s 50 mg per kg of weight per day. Moreover, for stevia, it’s 12 mg of stevia extracts per kilo body weight per day. Similar measurements go for other sweeteners as well. 

Not following these limits and consuming sweeteners in uncontrolled amounts will result in artificial sweeteners side effects. Some sugar free tab side effects are as follows:

Headaches and Depression

Some adverse health effects artificial sweeteners in some individuals are headaches and depression.  However, there is no established link between the intake of sweeteners and headaches. Some individuals may be more sensitive to all or some sweeteners.

In the list of disadvantages of sugar free tablets, next is depression. Some people complain of depression and stress when on artificial sweeteners, especially aspartame, for long periods. However, this isn’t seen generally and is only for specific individuals.

Kidney Ailments

Some sugar free tablets for tea side effects include causing damage to the kidneys in the long run as some of these tablets are diuretics. 

Diuretic substances increase the release of water and electrolytes in urine. So initially, particular sweeteners like stevia were not recommended and were banned entirely.  In recent years, the results of studies have changed. However, more intensive research is required to make it completely safe for long-term usage.

Gastrointestinal Problems

Talking of side effects of sugar free sweeteners now comes gastrointestinal symptoms. Some sugar free tablets contain added sugar alcohols. 

These compounds can give you problems in the gut if consumed in considerable amounts. Sugar alcohols can mess up your gut health and cause problems like:

• Vomiting
• Bloating
• Nausea
• Cramps
• Acidity

At present, more human studies are needed. However, animal studies conducted have indicated natural sweeteners like stevia are better for the gut. 

Low Blood Pressure 

Sugar free tablets widen blood vessels and lower B.P. in individuals. Some sweeteners are vasodilators, and these are some of the adverse effects of artificial sweeteners. The bad effects of artificial sweeteners are these blood pressure-lowering effects. 

Interestingly, these sugar free tabs are consumed in limited amounts. Therefore, there is still no case of blood pressure dropping to dangerous levels. Individuals with low B.P. and on blood pressure medicines should consult with their diabetologist before starting these sweeteners.

Increased Progesterone Production

Some tablets of sugar free bad for health because they interfere with hormone production in your body. Compounds found in sugar free tablets, like steviol glycosides, have molecular compositions identical to steroids. 

A study done in 2016 indicated human sperm cells, due to steviol activity, produced increased progesterone. However, further extensive research is needed to establish these sugar free tablets are endocrine disruptors.

Pregnancy Issues

Now, on the list of side effects of artificial sweeteners for diabetics, pregnancy issues come next. Generally, sugar free tablets in minimal amounts are safe for pregnant women. 

But now, there are also counterfeit products that are sometimes found in these sugar free tablets. Therefore, many medical organisations advise against the usage of sugar free tablets and products during pregnancy. The most commonly found counterfeit ingredient is saccharin.

Sugar Free Tablets and Cancer

Considering the side effects of using sugar free tablets, now comes cancer. Sugar free and cancer have been linked since the 1970s. Even this year, in 2023, aspartame sweetener used in Diet Coke was under heavy scrutiny. 

However, despite all this news, the American Cancer Society has clearly stated that using Aspartame in limited amounts doesn’t cause cancer. Moreover, 30+ studies have found no link between artificial sweeteners and cancer risk. 

Medical organizations all over the world, including the U.S. and Europe, have agreed that artificial sweetener side effects don’t include cancer risk. 

Read More: 15 Foods To Lower Blood Sugar Levels

Who Should Avoid Sugar Free Tablets?

The following individuals should avoid sugar free tablets:

• Individuals with metabolic syndrome, like phenylketonuria (PKU). PKU patients cannot digest the amino acid phenylalanine and, therefore, should avoid artificial sweeteners
• Individuals who are allergic to sulfonamides, which are present in many sweeteners.

Conclusion

Artificial sweeteners are still in the process of research and need extensive human studies. With the present set of knowledge and research, it wouldn’t be enough to pass judgment on sugar free tablets’ safety, according to top health organizations like WHO, American Cancer Society, ADA, etc. There are set per-day limits for different artificial sweeteners. Try sticking with the permissible limits to avoid these artificial sweeteners side effects.

Read More: How to Reverse Prediabetes Naturally?

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)