Reducing sweet cravings does not reduce cravings or improve health, and we may have been associated with the false myth that controlling sugar cravings can help reduce other cravings and improve overall health.
Researchers from Bournemouth University, United Kingdom, conducted a study that suggests eating less sweet foods does not make people crave them less.
The new study involved a trial with 180 participants divided into three groups.
One group consumed a diet high in sweet-tasting foods, another group consumed a diet low in sweets, and a third group had moderate levels.
Over six months, participants who increased or decreased their intake of sweet foods showed similar results across all health measures, and the sweetness in their diets came from a mix of sugar, naturally sweet foods, and low-calorie sweeteners.
The study also found no meaningful differences in markers associated with heart disease or diabetes.
Many even returned to their old eating habits over time.
Based on these results, the researchers suggest that public health strategies aimed at reducing sweet foods may need to be revised when tackling overweight and obesity.
Researchers say it may be time to reconsider guidelines that focus on reducing sweetness rather than reducing sugar and calories
“It’s not about eating less sweet foods to reduce obesity,” says Professor Appleton. “The health problems are related to sugar consumption.”
Some fast food products may not taste sweet, but may contain high sugar content. Likewise, many naturally sweet foods, such as fresh fruit and dairy products, may have health benefits.
“Public advice should therefore focus on how people can reduce the amount of sugar and energy-dense foods they consume,” she concluded.
In addition, the study results were published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.
