A local expert gives his opinion on the WHO report on artificial sweeteners

PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. — Cherellyn Savoy underwent gastric bypass surgery three weeks ago at Bayfront Health in St. Petersburg.

So far she has lost 25 pounds.

“I’m very good. I feel amazing. I haven’t felt this good in years. said Savoy.

Savoy says with the surgery; she works on a healthy and balanced diet.

One that includes lots of sugar-free sweeteners.

“It’s quite a lifestyle change, so there’s not a lot of room for artificial sweeteners. I sometimes have a water or two a day. I’m going to use a sweetener or something. said Savoy.

When it comes to these artificial sweeteners, the World Health Organization says you don’t use them to try to control your weight because of the potential health risks.

The WHO says sweeteners do not help with weight loss and increase the risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and even premature death.

We spoke with Dr. Alexander Ramirez of Bayfront Health’s Institute for Weight Loss and Bariatric Surgery in St. Petersburg.

He says obesity in the United States is worse than ever.

“We have a surplus of food available. We have too much free food. We have too many occasions to eat at the restaurant. We line up at restaurants every day. says Dr. Ramirez.

Dr. Ramirez says the sweeteners in many processed foods lead to serious health issues.

“We are talking about empty calories. All sugars are empty calories. They can provide you with energy, but there is no nutritional factor. says Dr. Ramirez.

The Calorie Control Council, a food industry group, said in a statement that it strongly disagrees with the WHO recommendation and that the safety of sugar-free sweeteners has been firmly established and is with weight management.

Meanwhile, Savoy says she still eats things she likes but is focused on giving her body the fuel it needs.

“It’s more about taking care of myself and what’s going to get me through the day and feeling good,” Savory said.