Are artificial sweeteners recommended?
The main goal of the Atkins Lifestyle is to stabilize blood sugar (glucose) and insulin levels through the control of both the quantity and quality of carbohydrates. Sugar is a carbohydrate, so it is strictly limited. Controlling carbs naturally curbs sugar cravings. However, if cravings are still present a sugar substitute can be judiciously used. Sugar and high fructose corn sweeteners pose a greater threat to good health than artificial sweeteners do. Be aware that not all sugar substitutes are created equal nor are they all well tolerated by everyone. Some people experience negative reactions to certain sweeteners, and the risk increases with the amount used. Limit all artificial sweeteners to 3 per day and remember to count each packet as 1 gram of carbohydrate. Sucralose, marketed under the name Splenda, is derived from sugar; it is non-caloric and doesn’t raise blood sugar. It has been used in Canada since 1991 and has been thoroughly tested for safety and efficacy. Sucralose is
