A study published in July 2017 by the University of Manitoba found that, “Consumption of artificial sweeteners, such as aspartame, sucralose and stevia, is widespread and increasing. Emerging data indicate that artificial, or non-nutritive, sweeteners may have negative effects on metabolism, gut bacteria and appetite, although the evidence is conflicting.”
“The longer observational studies showed a link between consumption of artificial sweeteners and relatively higher risks of weight gain and obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease and other health issues.”
We suggest honey or dates rather than sugar or sweetener.
Source: EurekAlert!, the online, global news service operated by AAAS, the science society.