title: Sugar and sugar substitutes. Comparisons and indications.
abstract: Public confusion and concern about the use of sugar and sugar substitutes are widespread. Physicians must be prepared to answer patients' inquiries about these substances. Some population groups should avoid certain sugar substitutes. In particular, pregnant women and young children should avoid saccharin, and phenylketonuric homozygous persons should avoid aspartame. In a varied, balanced diet, the use of aspartame and saccharin is one safe way for the general population to enjoy sweet foods with fewer calories and less cariogenic potential. Sugar substitutes may be helpful in dietary compliance for overweight and diabetic patients.
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D001218:Aspartame / Q000009:adverse effects; D003927:Diet, Diabetic; D004038:Diet, Reducing; D004040:Dietary Carbohydrates; D002149:Energy Intake / Q000187:drug effects; D006801:Humans; D051381:Rats; D012439:Saccharin / Q000009:adverse effects; D013549:Sweetening Agents / Q000009:adverse effects; D014481:United States; D014486:United States Food and Drug Administration; D001749:Urinary Bladder Neoplasms / Q000139:chemically induced
chemical_list: D004040:Dietary Carbohydrates; D013549:Sweetening Agents; D012439:Saccharin; D001218:Aspartame