The Dr. Oz Show Claims about Low Calorie Sweeteners Disproven by Leading Health Organizations and Numerous Scientific Studies

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Mar 11, 2014, 07:00 ET

ATLANTA, March 11, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- According to The Calorie Control Council, claims made yesterday on The Dr. Oz Show that low calorie sweeteners cause food cravings and weight gain are misleading and contrary to a large body of scientific research. Leading health groups such as the American Diabetes Association, the American Heart Association and the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics all agree that low calorie sweeteners can be safely used for weight management.

Sylvia Melendez Klinger, MS, RDN, LDN, CPT and Dr. James Hill at the University of Colorado and co-founder of America on the Move. (PRNewsFoto/Calorie Control Council) (PRNewsFoto/CALORIE CONTROL COUNCIL)

Contrary to what was said in the Dr. Oz Show segment, low calorie sweeteners do not "trick" the taste buds, brain or stomach or lead to cravings, diabetes, or heart disease. These claims are likely based on one opinion article that has been refuted, while more than 40 published scientific research studies show that obesity and/or cravings are not caused by low-calorie sweeteners. When used in combination with a healthy diet and exercise program, low calorie sweeteners are important tools for weight loss and weight management.

"Let's get real. People need choices. Low calorie sweeteners can be useful tools to help with weight management, when used in combination with a healthy diet and exercise program," Dr. James Hill of the University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus and co-founder of America On The Move. "Small changes in the diet like walking ten extra minutes a day, taking three fewer bites of your hamburger, or consuming products with low calorie sweeteners can have a positive impact."

"In addition to a better diet and exercise, some of my patients rely on low calorie sweeteners to help them lose or maintain a healthy weight," said Sylvia Melendez Klinger, a registered dietitian.

"Weight loss and weight management are hard enough without unnecessary scare mongering," said Dr. Haley Stevens, President of the Calorie Control Council. "The science overwhelmingly supports the safety and benefits of having low-calorie sweeteners as a part of a healthy overall diet. Consumers depend on these choices every day to help lead a healthy lifestyle."

For more practical, science-based information on low calorie sweeteners and healthy diets visit CalorieControl.org, TheSkinnyOnLowCal.org, and AmericaOnTheMove.com.

About the Calorie Control Council
The Calorie Control Council, established in 1966, is an international association representing the low- and reduced-calorie food and beverage industry. Today it represents manufacturers and suppliers of low- and reduced-calorie foods and beverages, including manufacturers and suppliers of more than two dozen different alternative sweeteners, fibers and other low-calorie, dietary ingredients. For helpful tips on weight loss and controlling calories, along with tools and truths on healthy eating and exercise for life, visit the Council's main website at www.CalorieControl.org or the Council's blog at www.TheSkinnyOnLowCal.org

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SOURCE Calorie Control Council