Health
Don’t Use Artificial Sweeteners for Weight Loss, WHO Says
- New WHO advice is based on evidence from observational studies
- Guidance doesn’t apply to people who already have diabetes
World Health Organization headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland.
Photographer: Fabrice Coffrini/AFP/Getty ImagesThis article is for subscribers only.
Artificial sweeteners may not help people lose weight, the World Health Organization said in new guidelines that warned against products like diet sodas.
The WHO’s advice is based on a scientific review that found products containing aspartame and stevia — often marketed as diet foods — likely don’t help reduce body fat in the long term.