Kristen replied:
It’s complicated. Today, sugar substitutes or artificial sweeteners are in all sorts of foods and drinks labeled “sugar free” or “diet.” They’re safe to eat, but there’s more to the story.
Sugar substitutes can be 200 to 20,000 times sweeter than regular sugar—so it takes only a small amount to add the desired sweetness. Because they’re so intense, artificial sweeteners can leave you craving sweeter and sweeter foods, and make water, fruit and natural foods less appealing.
Products made with sugar substitutes are often highly processed, too, and offer minimal health benefits. (If you watch your sugar intake due to a medical issue, talk to a registered dietitian or other health care professional about what’s best for you.)
When you see zero sugar and zero calories on a label, it may sound great. But try to limit your intake, because they aren’t as zero-impact as it may seem.