"You Should Throw This Food Out of Your Fridge Immediately"... Eating This 'Zero' Food for Health May Be Harmful If Consumed Daily

Experts have warned that "zero" foods, which are perceived as being better for health and weight management, can actually have negative effects on the body.

Lee Ji-hye, a clinical nutritionist who recently appeared on the YouTube channel 'Geonnamul TV,' said, "Interest in health and weight management has increased recently, but it is still difficult for people to give up their craving for sweetness." She added, "Some people seek out zero products to avoid sugar."

However, she cautioned against the perception that zero foods are healthy alternatives. She explained, "The word 'zero' gives a sense of psychological reassurance and the impression that these are healthy substitutes." Even if there is some vague anxiety about artificial sweeteners, people often think, "Since it's only a small amount, it must be better than sugar."

The photo is for article illustration purposes only and is not directly related to the content. Photo by Yonhap News Agency

원본보기 아이콘

Nevertheless, the artificial sweeteners used in zero sugar products have been identified as problematic. Substances like aspartame, sucralose, acesulfame potassium, and stevia are hundreds to thousands of times sweeter than sugar, so only a small amount is needed to achieve sufficient sweetness. The nutritionist explained, "These artificial sweeteners stimulate receptors in the brain to trigger the sensation of sweetness and contain no calories, but that does not mean the body has no reaction at all."

She continued, "Sugar and chocolate, for example, stimulate the brain's reward circuit to release dopamine." She noted that even after consuming zero sugar products, some people may still crave sweeter foods. She also mentioned that this process can lead to issues such as impaired glucose metabolism, increased inflammatory responses, and insulin resistance.

Stock photo of carbonated drinks. Pixabay

원본보기 아이콘

In particular, she cited research findings indicating that sucralose and similar substances can alter the gut environment and increase the risk of diabetes. Furthermore, if people continue to consume zero sugar products, a vicious cycle occurs in which they increasingly seek out even sweeter foods.

Finally, the nutritionist suggested ways to healthily reduce the craving for sweetness. She recommended, "Adding lemon to sparkling water is a good option, as the refreshing sensation helps to curb the craving for overly sweet flavors." She also suggested eating yogurt with nuts as an alternative way to satisfy sweet cravings.

© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.