A recent video by Delhi-based Surgical Gastroenterology Specialist Dr Anshuman Kaushal, known on Instagram as theangry_doc, has sparked renewed discussion about the rapidly growing market of zero-sugar and diet-labelled products. In the video, Dr Kaushal warns that foods marketed as sugar-free can mislead consumers into believing they are harmless. In reality, these products may promote overeating, trigger insulin spikes, and harm gut health over time. Accompanying the video, Dr Kaushal shared a detailed report on his Instagram page highlighting the ‘sweet deception’ behind many modern diet foods. He emphasises that zero sugar does not always mean zero risk and encourages careful consideration of what we consume.
Hidden metabolic impact of sugar-free snacks and artificial sweeteners
Dr Kaushal draws attention to the increasing popularity of sugar-free snacks and beverages, noting that packaging claims can be misleading. Many artificial sweeteners and sugar alcohols, he explains, can have a greater metabolic effect than natural sugar. Research cited from the Yale Journal of Biology highlights that the sensation of sweetness, whether from sugar or artificial substitutes, activates the brain’s dopamine reward pathway. When the anticipated energy does not arrive, insulin spikes occur, and future cravings increase, potentially raising total calorie intake by 20 to 30 percent.
Further evidence comes from a 2023 JAMA study showing that sucralose can elevate insulin levels by up to 30 percent even without the presence of glucose. This process keeps fat storage active despite the absence of calories. Sugar alcohols like maltitol and sorbitol also pose challenges. According to the European Food Safety Authority, maltitol can increase blood sugar levels by up to 52 percent compared with regular sugar, while sorbitol can trigger digestive discomfort even at small doses.
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How zero-sugar products can disrupt gut health and promote overeating
Beyond the artificial sweeteners, Dr Kaushal warns that many zero-sugar biscuits, protein bars, and cakes are packed with stabilisers, emulsifiers, and highly refined carbohydrates such as tapioca starch and rice flour. A 2024 review published in Nature reports that artificial emulsifiers can disrupt the gut lining, increase inflammation, and worsen insulin resistance . These factors may explain why frequent consumers of diet foods often report bloating and fluctuations in metabolism.
High glycemic index refined starches found in these products can spike blood glucose faster than table sugar, prompting the brain to demand real energy. This compensatory mechanism can lead to overeating. Dr Kaushal notes that individuals who regularly consume zero-sugar sodas often end up consuming 200 to 300 extra calories in their next meal.
Natural dietary choices to support gut and metabolic wellness
Dr Kaushal recommends a return to minimally processed whole foods for sustainable weight management and metabolic wellness. He advises using natural sweeteners such as stevia in moderation, increasing protein and fibre intake, choosing whole fruits instead of artificially flavoured substitutes, and selecting dark chocolate with over 70 percent cocoa instead of engineered sugar-free desserts.
With over 24 years of medical experience, Dr Kaushal serves as a Surgical Gastroenterology Specialist at Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, New Delhi. He is renowned for his expertise in bariatric and laparoscopic surgery and regularly educates the public on gut health and metabolic wellness.
Dr Kaushal’s key message is clear: sugar-free does not automatically mean safe. Sweetness without calories can confuse the brain, trigger insulin spikes, harm gut health, and intensify cravings. For individuals seeking weight loss or improved metabolic health through diet-labelled products, real, minimally processed foods may still offer the most effective and sustainable solution.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional before making any changes to your diet, especially if you have underlying health conditions.