Fortunately, other non-governmental studies have been completed and the results have shown that Sucralose is responsible for a variety of ailments: headaches, blurred vision, short-term dizziness, and more serious long term effects such as depression and weight gain. There are other effects associated with splenda consumption as well, such as:
* Skin breaking out in hives or rashes
* Shortness of breath
* Swelling of facial muscles
* Eye irritation
* Joint pains
* General sensation of anxiety in a number of consumers
Although Splenda is considered the “better” of the unhealthy family (Sweet N Low, Equal, etc) it is still not considered safe. Many doctors will not allow pregnant or nursing women to consume these artificial sweeteners. A better alternative is anything from the “healthy family” such as Truvia, Stevia, or Xylitol. These are made from a plant, not a chemical. These are more expensive and can be found in health food stores, and some supermarkets.
Some additional side effects of splenda, which I do not have studies on, but are based on my clients’ reports, are craving sugar and a bloated midsection. Several of my clients reported that within a week of abandoning all artificial sweeteners, their abdominal area felt much more “flat.”
Keep in mind that even if you give up your splenda packets in your cappuccino or your cooking, it can still be found in many other products. Some of these include ices (especially “diet” ices), low fat muffins, syrups, and diet beverages.
If you don’t want to go extreme, cut BACK versus completely cutting OUT. An easy way to start is to carry around in your purse some truvia or stevia packets and ask your barista or waiter to put those in instead of artificial sweeteners (I do this).
Hope this clarified your splenda dilemma!
