Is sweetener addictive?

[Dimplenose]

I've posted a similar thread before without any definite answer but a recent thread has got me thinking again.

I am following an eating plan that is fairly high in carbohydrates mainly rice, potatoes and pasta. Nothing is totally banned from my plan but some things are very limited. I've been getting fairly tired and sleepy by mid afternoon and someone at work suggested I cut out white bread and sugar.

I've also cut out any wheat product i.e.pasta, cake, pastry etc. and I can't believe the change in my energy levels and my lack of bingeing. I am using a lot of sweetener (canderel and splenda mainly) on yoghurts and porridge. Is this as bad as using sugar - will it just perpetuate my need for sugar?

I'd also be interested if anyone knows why cutting out wheat has been so good.

Libby

 

[bicker]

There are tons of web pages that describe the effect sugars and refined grains have on your body. You're right: Although you get a short-term spike of energy from them, it's followed closely by a rather drastic slump -- you feel tired, and then soon thereafter, you feel ravenously hungry. That's why your coworker was recommending cutting down on those things.

Sucralose is safe for diabetics, so it clearly doesn't have the same impact on insulin levels, so shouldn't cause the same effect as sugar and refined grains. Saccharine has no impact either. Aspartame, however, is questionable.

 

[Otto's Doll]

Aspartame is also nasty! lol

Jeanne