Just replacing sugar with other sources of carbohydrates may not necessarily make you lose weight, a European study finds.

Demolishing a few myths regarding the adverse impact of sugars on the body, the study observes that what is more important is the total amount of energy intake, the energy density of the foods and the quality of the diet.

Myth: Sugar dilutes effects of other nutrients

What researchers say: Added sugars do not necessarily compromise a person's intake of micronutrients. The "micronutrient dilution" myth that eating added sugars dilutes the nutrient density of a person's diet appears mostly due to misreporting and methodological constraints.

Myth: Sugar is bad for the teeth

What researchers say: Although sugar consumption has traditionally been associated with poor dental health, the experts pointed to the importance of the frequency, more than the amount, of consumption of all sugars and fermentable carbohydrates.
Use a good toothpaste: For the prevention of tooth decay, the widespread use of fluoridated toothpaste and good oral hygiene play a more important role.

Myth: Just cutting down on sugar will help you lose weight

What researchers say: The combined impact of many dietary and lifestyle factors such as physical activity, excessive calorie intake and weight gain, and their interactions, have to be taken into account.
Obesity and low physical activity are causally related to the development of insulin resistance and its progression towards type 2 diabetes.

There is convincing evidence from randomised controlled trials (RCT) that weight-loss and moderate physical activity are beneficial in improving insulin sensitivity and preventing type 2 diabetes.

Need to review the way we look at sugars

"The results provide a much needed update of the overall scientific evidence on sugars and suggest that new randomised controlled intervention studies of sufficient size and duration are required," said Andreu Palou, who chaired the expert workshop.

Pic:JadeGordon