Sugar & Artificial Sweeteners

Sugar in all its forms, whether it be table sugar, maple syrup, brown sugar, honey or corn syrup can all be used in moderation to add enjoyment to everyday healthy eating. Sugar improves the colour, flavour and texture of foods. The only real major concern about sugar and your health is the role it plays in tooth decay; that's where regular brushing and flossing comes in.

Sugar provides energy (calories), and therefore needs to be used in moderation. Artificial sweeteners have been developed to add sweetness to food without adding the extra calories. Sweeteners are extensively tested as food additives by the FDA.

For example:

• Aspartame (NutraSweet, Equal) - people with the rare genetic condition phenylketonuria (PKU) should avoid using aspartame
• Acesulfame potassium (Ace-K) - may be of a concern for people who are on a potassium-restricted diet or sulfa-antibiotic drugs

BOTTOM LINE: Sugar and/or Artificial Sweeteners can be safely added as part of a healthy diet. Remember that balance and moderation are the keys healthy eating.