Possible health benefits of artificial sweeteners

Artificial sweeteners don't contribute to tooth decay and cavities. Artificial sweeteners may also help with:

• Weight control. Artificial sweeteners have virtually no calories. In contrast, a teaspoon of sugar has about 16 calories — so a can of sweetened cola with 10 teaspoons of added sugar has about 160 calories. If you're trying to lose weight or prevent weight gain, products sweetened with artificial sweeteners may be an attractive option, although their effectiveness for long-term weight loss isn't clear.
• Diabetes. Artificial sweeteners aren't carbohydrates. So unlike sugar, artificial sweeteners generally don't raise blood sugar levels. Ask your doctor or dietitian before using any sugar substitutes if you have diabetes.