Your take on 'Splenda'

[SpinDiva]

(Photo by pinoforte)

There are so many mixed "reviews" or feelings about the use of Splenda that I am more than confused these days. When my dad was diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes, about 30 years ago, it was a tough switch to completely leave out the sugar among all his other favorite foods. Then he was introduced to the pink and blue packets, none of which he cares for because of the after taste. Then Splenda came along, taste more like sugar than anything else and allows for some sweetness in his life without compromising his body. I was happy for him.
Anyway, I have used Splenda on and off. I have experimented making certain baked foods with it, added to lemonade and iced tea, in my coffee or hot tea, etc. All of which tasted fine to me, not like sugar, but acceptable to me.

I have never had the runs, a migraine or felt dizzy after using Splenda. Again, I use very little, just as I would sugar. But then there are some articles that talk about this product like it's the next killer.

I just want to know, what is your take on using this particular artificial sweetener (Succralose)?

[Lauren Herzog]

I wouldn't recommend it. There have been several studies that have found that artificial sweeteners like Splenda actually can negatively impact your heath. They are sweeter than natural cane sugar, almost fooling your taste buds and other satiety receptors. It has been hypothesized that this negative calorie balance is actually causing us to eat MORE to compensate. Those who regularly use artificial sweeteners like this may be at higher risk for developing metabolic syndrome, and other chronic health condition like high blood pressure, and diabetes. Backwards right? And guess what, I saw a commercial this afternoon for Splenda with FIBER. No wonder the American public is so confused.

[Susana]

Splenda with fiber? What kind of fiber is inside? It is totally ridiculous! That sounds like another "catch" for consumers...

After so many years taking the fiber from everything, manufacturers are adding it to many products. Why don't get the fiber from the natural sources instead? ;)

[Lauren Herzog]

It's actually not a catch, it's a "soluble" type of fiber that can be dissolved in liquids, gels, etc.. It does help with digestive health, but I agree that the insoluble fiber that you get in whole food sources can not be completely replaced with these types of fiber.