Sweeteners and Sugar- Their Impact on Human Metabolic Health and Chronic Diseases

ABSTRACT: The rising global consumption of sugars and sweeteners has sparked significant concern over their impact on human metabolic health and chronic diseases. This paper reviews the role of various sugars and artificial sweeteners in contributing to health issues such as obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and metabolic syndrome. Sugars, including glucose, fructose, and sucrose, are integral to the human diet, providing essential energy but also posing risks when consumed in excess. The research highlights that excessive sugar intake, particularly from processed foods, correlates with a heightened risk of chronic diseases, including diabetes and heart disease. Artificial sweeteners, while offering a low-calorie alternative, also carry potential health risks, such as carcinogenicity and metabolic disturbances. These sweeteners, including saccharin, aspartame, and sucralose, are extensively used in various food products, but their long-term effects remain a topic of debate. The paper underscores the importance of a balanced diet that limits the intake of added sugars and emphasizes the need for further research to fully understand the complex relationship between sugar consumption and chronic diseases. It suggests that natural sweeteners may offer a safer alternative, though more studies are needed to evaluate their effectiveness across different populations, particularly those with metabolic disorders. This review article aims to analyze the effects of sugars and artificial sweeteners on human metabolic health and chronic diseases, such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular conditions. It emphasizes the need for balanced consumption and public health strategies to reduce added sugars and promote safer alternatives.