Reducing sweet foods may not help with cravings or obesity, researchers say

A new study is challenging a long-held belief about diet and health, suggesting that cutting down on sweet-tasting foods may not reduce cravings or improve overall health.

Researchers from Bournemouth University in the U.K. found that reducing sweetness in the diet does not necessarily lead to fewer cravings for sugary foods. The findings were published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.

The study followed 180 participants divided into three groups: one consuming a high-sweetness diet, another a low-sweetness diet, and a third a moderate level. Over a six-month period, researchers tracked changes in eating habits and key health markers.

Results showed little difference between the groups. Participants who reduced or increased sweet foods experienced similar outcomes across health measures, including indicators linked to heart disease and diabetes.

The study also found that many participants eventually returned to their original eating patterns, regardless of the diet they followed.

Experts say the findings suggest that public health strategies focused solely on reducing sweet-tasting foods may need to be reconsidered, particularly in efforts to address obesity and related conditions.

“It’s not about eating less sweet food to reduce obesity levels,” said Professor Appleton, one of the study’s authors. “The health concerns relate to sugar consumption.”

Researchers emphasized that not all sweet foods have the same impact. While some processed foods may contain high levels of hidden sugar, naturally sweet options such as fruits and dairy products can offer nutritional benefits.

The study concludes that dietary advice should focus more on reducing overall sugar intake and calorie-dense foods, rather than simply cutting out sweetness.