Episode 049: Artificial Sweeteners after WLS with Dr. Erika La Vella

Dawn Boxell — Sun, 27 Mar 2022 15:34:40 +0000

Artificial Sweeteners after WLS

The use of artificial sweeteners after WLS and the gut microbiome is discussed in this interview with Erika LaVella, DO, FASMBS. Dr. LaVella is a bariatric surgeon practicing in Oregon.

Understanding the gut microbiome

The gut microbiome is exactly why your nutrition matters. It is literally the glue that connects us all to our environment. It’s the missing link in our scientific understanding of how a healthy person is actually healthy and why not all calories are created equal.

Our gut microbiome is as unique as our individual fingerprint and individual genome.

It’s believed we are more bacteria. Their genome, their genetic information influences ours in real time.

Every 20 minutes bacteria are replicating, dividing, dying off. They experience very rapid, genetic changes based on the environment.

Artificial sweeteners hijack reward center

These seemingly innocent sweet tasting low-calorie powders were invented to help people.

Turns out, we can’t manipulate the sweet taste and get a perfect outcome. They’re hyper-palatable. This means they taste too good to be true to the human brain.

There is a condition where a person will start to eat these unnaturally sweet things. Sweet taste is our highest dopamine reward center. At no surprise, it can create this addictive behavior toward them.

If you are consuming a “sugar free” something as part of a treat to yourself. Ask yourself…”Can I go without this?”

Artificial sweeteners impact on the gut microbiome

In some studies, artificial sweetener use result in fewer populations with beneficial gut bacteria. One study cited a 50% reduction.

Want to learn more? Tune into the full episode with Dr. LaVella.

If you’re struggling with cravings or digestive issues…

Are you struggling with cravings, gas, bloating? I would consider working with a functional nutrition professional to get to the root cause.

I’d love to work with you too! Check out my packages and schedule a time to chat.

Your future health awaits

Play-by-Play:
2:00 What is the gut microbiome?
16:00 Artificial sweeteners and the gut microbiome
22:00 Artificial sweeteners hijack reward center
30:00 How to find balance

Listen, Learn, Enjoy

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