The World Health Organization (WHO) has recommended against the use of artificial sweeteners (sugar substitutes) for weight control or reducing non-communicable diseases. A guideline issued by the organization states that the use of artificial sweeteners does not benefit in reducing body fat and may have long-term harms, such as an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases, according to the results of a study on available evidence.
The recommendation applies to all individuals except those with diabetes and does not apply to personal care products such as toothpaste, skin cream, and medications.
Artificial sweeteners include stevia and its derivatives, saccharin, sucralose, and aspartame.
