The Silver Bot

Splenda is, in fact, sucralose. While sucralose starts off as a sugar molecule, it is what goes on in the factory that is concerning. Sucralose is a synthetic chemical that is cooked up in a five-step patented process. During this process, three chlorine molecules are added to a basic sucrose molecule. The initial, natural sugar molecule is a disaccharide that contains two single sugars that are together; these single sugars are glucose and fructose.

The chemical process to make the sucralose that is finally packaged as Splenda modifies the chemical makeup of the sugar so much that it is converted into a molecule that does not normally occur in nature. Because this artificial molecule is not natural, the body does not know how to process it. According to the manufacturers of Splenda, this is the very grounds on which Splenda has zero calories — it is not broken down or metabolized in the body. Splenda simply passes through the digestive track without depositing any calories.

This is deceptive, however, as Splenda’s zero calorie status would only be technically valid if the body did have the capacity to metabolize it. More disturbing, the fact that Splenda is a completely artificial ingredient elicits questions about its safety, especially if used in generous amounts over a long period of time. There is a further potential problem of insulin response. While research findings are still inconclusive, the medical community widely speculates that Splenda elicits an increase in insulin levels, which, despite the calorie content, will signal the body to hold on to fat reserves or even store more fat.

One research report nullifies the assertion that Splenda is not absorbed by the body. In this study (conducted on humans), one in eight participants did not eliminate any sucralose after three days of consuming Splenda. Another study (conducted on animals) found that 15% of ingested sucralose is absorbed into the digestive system and is then stored in the body.

Splenda Facts:

- Splenda is a chlorocarbon, which has a history of creating organ impairment, genetic mutation and reproductive issues.

- Splenda can shrink the thymus gland, which plays an significant role in healthy immune system function.

- Sucralose can create swelling of the liver and calcification of the kidneys.

- The studies promoted by the makers Splenda only report certain results and do not provide an accurate picture of the true health impact of Splenda.

- If the body is digesting properly, any food or chemical you ingest will be absorbed. If we feed the body a completely indigestible substance (such as margarine), it will pass through the body undigested, if it doesn’t get trapped in the gall bladder. If Splenda is really indigestible, that is a larger problem than the matter of absorption.

- Splenda is slightly better than Aspartame. If you had to pick between the two, choose Splenda. Saccharin is the only artificial sweetener that is modestly acceptable. But it is best to use healthy sweeteners.