Are low-calorie foods and beverages useful in controlling weight?
As part of an overall sensible weight-control program, low-calorie foods and beverages can help consumers control calories and therefore control weight. Health professionals agree that the key to losing weight is to burn more calories than are consumed, either by increasing physical activity or consuming fewer calories — or, preferably, both. Low-calorie foods and beverages provide consumers an alternative to higher-calorie, sugar-sweetened products. Recent studies support the effectiveness of low-calorie sweeteners in controlling caloric intake. In one recent study, researchers at Harvard Medical School concluded that aspartame “is a valuable adjunct to a comprehensive program of balanced diet, exercise and behavior modifications for losing weight.” Health professionals are increasingly reminding Americans that “calories still count” — foods and beverages containing low-calorie sweeteners can increase the variety of reduced-calorie choices in the diet. How many calories can be saved
