Think using artificial sweeteners instead of sugar will help you lose weight? Think again. According to a new review of scientific evidence on non-nutritive sweeteners (i.e., artificial sweeteners) published this week, people who regularly consume these types of artificial sweeteners don’t receive help with weight loss and are also more likely to develop future health problems.

After looking at two types of scientific research the authors concluded that there is no solid evidence that sweeteners like aspartame and sucralose help people manage their weight. Thus disproving the theory that these sweeteners allow people to enjoy sweet-tasting beverages and foods without extra calories, potential weight gain and related health issues.

Examining artificial sweeteners is important since so many people use them on a regular basis, and many more do so unwittingly in products such as granola bars and yogurt. In fact, in another study published earlier this year found that a quarter of U.S. children and 41 percent of adults reported consuming artificial sweeteners – most of them doing so once per day.

More research is bound to take place since this is a much debated and controversial topic. I for one am no fan of artificial sweeteners and believe they are harmful to one’s health. In fact, when I started Seattle Sutton’s Healthy Eating more than 32 years ago, I knew I would not include them in the meals we provide our clients. I am so glad that I was of the mindset and wherewithal to know the downside of these sweeteners.