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Wednesday, October 31, 2012

Artificial Sweetners


Artificial Sweeteners

       When I suggest patients avoid sugar on a regular basis, the next topic I cover is artificial sweeteners. By avoiding sugar, let me add, that I would rather see people eat sugar than 'sugar free' foods, made with chemicals. Artificial Sweeteners are chemicals. Chemicals have an adverse reactions on any animal, including humans ; they have side effects. Artificial sweeteners cross the blood brain barrier and can cause neurological disorders.including Bell's Palsy. There are more complaints to the FDA about artificial sweeteners than any other product on the market. They aren't taken off the market because the corporations, that make them, have such a strong lobby. 
      One of the side effects of artificial sweeteners is sweet cravings, ironic when people using these products are attempting to avoid sweets. Another side effect is addiction to the chemicals used in the artificial sweeteners. Helping patients stop the use artificial sweeteners, I use the same protocol I use for patients with addictions to cigarettes, and drugs. Causing sweet cravings and addictions to the chemicals used assures increased sales.  
      Stevia, a natural sweetener made from a plant, is used in other countries, instead of chemicals, for sugar free foods, and used for diabetics. Until recently, the artificial sweetener corporations have lobbied to keep it off the market in the US, and out of food items. In the past, it has just been legal to sell Stevia in Health Food stores as a supplement. As soon as the law was over turned, corporations started to sell artificial sweeteners that incorporated Stevia. Their problem is that natural substances, like Stevia, can not be patented. Chemicals can! Using Stevia, for the buzz word, for promotional purposes, and adding their chemicals, they can  patent their addictive, toxic version.
       So, for the occasional sweet treat, go for sweeteners low on the Glycemic Index, or occasionally sugar itself. Completely avoid artificial sweeteners! 

                                                                        Health & Happiness,
                                                                             Nancy Burton, L.Ac.
                                                                                 534 Washington St. Ashland, OR   97520
                                                                                 For Appointments Call:  541-646-0134

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