We’ve often blogged about energy balance and its role in maintaining a healthy weight.  Simply put, it all comes down to “calories in, calories out.”  That is, we have to burn off the calories we take in from all foods and beverages so as not to gain weight.  We know there are many weight loss strategies out there – and we are not advocating any one in particular.  That’s for our readers seeking to lose weight to discuss with their doctor, nutritionist or other health professional.  After all, we know – and science shows – there is no silver bullet for losing weight.  What we also know – and what is also supported by science – is that low-calorie sweeteners, such as those in diet beverages, can be a helpful tool for weight loss and weight maintenance.  But no matter what, they must be incorporated into an overall diet and exercise plan as part of a healthy, balanced and active lifestyle.

Yesterday, the American Heart Association and American Diabetes Association issued a joint statement on low-calorie sweeteners, also known as non-nutritive sweeteners. In the statement, Dr. Christopher Gardner, associate professor of medicine at Stanford University, noted that, “While they are not magic bullets, smart use of non-nutritive sweeteners could help you reduce added sugars in your diet, therefore lowering the number of calories you eat. Reducing calories could help you attain and maintain a healthy body weight ….”

We agree that reducing the number of calories you eat – from all foods and beverages, not just sugar-sweetened beverages - can help with maintaining a healthy body weight.