All posts by: ssamples
Novice to Super Star: How athletes excel
March 5, 2018 — Oftentimes when watching great athletic achievements or difficult sporting events, we are inspired to become more physically active. While most will not become elite athletes, understanding how these athletes became proficient in their sport can help us succeed in leading a healthier lifestyle. Big Goals Aren’t Achieved In One Day, But … Continue reading
Calorie Control Council Spokesperson Provides a Critique of “Revisiting the safety of aspartame”, by Choudhary and Pretorius, published in Nutrition Reviews 2017
November 29, 2017 — Recent publications in scientific journals claim to review the evidence of aspartame but do not provide a comprehensive perspective of the findings from hundreds of studies. Council spokesperson and toxicologist Bernadene Magnuson, PhD provides her opinion of the review “Revisiting the safety of aspartame” below. Overall Summary: Central to the safety … Continue reading
Putting Breakfast on the Menu
Are you a member of the breakfast club – or do you miss out in the morning? September is Better Breakfast Month, a time to wake up to the benefits of eating a nutritious breakfast and give the meal the respect it deserves. Numerous studies support the importance of eating breakfast regularly – and the … Continue reading
Aspartame Does Not Affect Kidney Function
August 15, 2017 — According to the CDC, 30 million people in the United States have diabetes and another 84 million adults have prediabetes. Type 2 diabetes is when the body does not utilize insulin properly and this can cause glucose levels to rise in the blood. Type 1 diabetes is less common but requires … Continue reading
Plan Your Best Summer Ever
How do you live your best summer ever? Is it in the summer bucket lists filled with fun activities or the fun vacations you have planned? Or is it in the simple moments where you are just enjoying a walk in the sunshine? Is it attending family events to reunite with extended family again? Living … Continue reading
Make-Ahead White Sangria
Makes 15 Servings Ingredients 2 bottles (750mL each) Pinot Grigio 1 cup Equal Spoonful 1-1/2 cups apple juice 1-1/2 cups lemon juice 1-1/2 cups orange juice 1 cup apple brandy 1 cup orange liqueur 1 cup water 2 apples, cored, thinly sliced 3 navel oranges, cut into quarters 4 lemons, cut into quarters 12 strawberries, … Continue reading
Safety and Approval
Aspartame is a low-calorie sweetener that has been safely used in a variety of foods and beverages for over 30 years. More than 200 scientific studies support the safety of aspartame. Aspartame has been reviewed by regulatory agencies from around the world, including the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the Joint Expert Committee on … Continue reading
How do you pick a low-calorie sweetener?
Flavor and taste are important to consumers in deciding which low calorie sweetener to choose. Aspartame used in chewing gum keeps the sweet taste longer than sugar… Continue reading
Fruit Baked Apples
Makes 8 Servings Ingredients 1/2 cup Equal Spoonful 1 tablespoon cornstarch 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1 cup unsweetened apple juice 1 package (6 ounces) dried mixed fruit, chopped 1 tablespoon butter 8 medium tart baking apples Cooking spray Directions Preheat oven to 350°F. Combine Equal, cornstarch, cinnamon and nutmeg in a … Continue reading
Apple Cranberry Strudel Bites
Makes 7 Serves Ingredients Cooking spray 1 Granny Smith apple, cored, diced 2 tablespoons dried cranberries 2 tablespoons lemon juice 1 tablespoon golden raisins 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon chopped crystallized ginger* 1/2 cup water 1 teaspoon cornstarch 4 teaspoons Equal® Spoonful OR 2 packets Equal® Sweetener 14 mini phyllo shells, thawed 1 tablespoon … Continue reading
Put the Fresh into Refreshment
Spring break is upon us, which means the sun is shining, the weather is warmer and the days are getting longer. The warmer weather also means many of us will swap out our warm beverages for cool, refreshing ones. It’s also time to start getting ready for summer bathing suit season and to start shedding … Continue reading
The Taste of Aspartame
While some don’t favor sugar substitutes, others like the taste of aspartame, saying it doesn’t have a bad aftertaste… Continue reading
What is your impression of aspartame?
Consumers felt aspartame is a good source to replace sugar, especially with the approval in many countries… Continue reading
Save 150 Calories with Aspartame
Aspartame sweetened soft drinks can save 150 calories in a 12 ounce drink… Continue reading
Raspberry Swirl Peach Soup
Makes 6 Servings Ingredients 3 pounds peaches, peeled, seeded, sliced 1/3 to 1/2 cup NutraSweet® Spoonful™ 1/4 cup NutraSweet® Spoonful™ Mint sprigs 3 cups peach nectar 1 pint fresh or frozen, thawed raspberries Freshly grated nutmeg Directions Process peaches, peach nectar and 1/3 to 1/2 cup NutraSweet® Spoonful™ in blender or food processor until smooth; … Continue reading
Iced Orange Cappuccino
Makes 8 Servings Ingredients Zest from 1 medium orange, cut into 1/2-inch strips 1-1/2 cups drip grind espresso coffee 3 cups skim milk Cocoa, ground nutmeg or cinnamon 7-1/2 cups cold water 3 to 4 tablespoons NutraSweet® Spoonful™ Light whipped topping Directions Yield: Makes 8 servings (about 8 ounces each) Place orange zest in bottom … Continue reading
Grilled Loin of Pork with Tart Cherry Sauce
Makes 12 servings Ingredients 1 boneless pork loin roast (about 4 pounds), fat trimmed Pepper 1/2 cup orange juice 1 clove garlic, minced 1/8 teaspoon ground allspice 3 tablespoons cornstarch 1 pound fresh or frozen cherries Salt 1 cup dry red wine 3 tablespoons chopped shallots or onions 1/4 teaspoon minced ginger root 1/8 teaspoon … Continue reading
Asian-Style Sea Scallops
Makes 6 servings Ingredients 1-1/2 cups broccoli flowerets 2 tablespoons sesame or vegetable oil 3 cups thinly sliced Napa cabbage or bok choy 1 cup shitake or common mushrooms, sliced 2 teaspoons ground star anise 1/2 cup chicken broth 2 to 3 teaspoons light reduced-sodium soy sauce 1/4 cup cold water 4 cups hot cooked … Continue reading
Chocolate Swirl Cheesecake
Makes 16 Servings Ingredients Crust 1-1/4 cups vanilla wafer crumbs 3 tablespoons butter, melted 2 tablespoons Equal Spoonful Cheesecake 3 packages (8 ounces each) reduced-fat cream cheese, softened 3/4 cup Equal Spoonful 2 eggs 2 egg whites 2 tablespoons cornstarch 1 cup reduced fat sour cream 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 ounce unsweetened chocolate, melted, … Continue reading
Would you be willing to try aspartame?
When asked, consumers tried aspartame and said it tasted like sugar, was light, and had no aftertaste… Continue reading
Would you consider using a sugar substitute, like aspartame?
Approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) more than 30 years ago, aspartame is something consumers would try in order to cut back on calorie count… Continue reading
What steps do you take in your daily routine to stay healthy?
To improve their nutrition and health, some consumers said they eat smaller portions, drink a lot of water, eat healthy, and balance what they eat… Continue reading
What did you learn about aspartame?
Consumers said aspartame can help with lowering calories, is safer that what people say, and that it tastes like sugar, giving sweetness with no calories… Continue reading
The Blue Packet is Aspartame
Consumers try low calorie sweetener in the blue packet known as aspartame, and like it!… Continue reading
Have you heard of aspartame?
The sugar substitute in the blue packet is preferred by some consumers, while is lesser known by others… Continue reading
Do you use low or no calorie sugar substitutes?
Taste is important. Some consumers feel they should be watching their calories, but don’t… Continue reading
Do you like ice cream or yogurts or puddings?
Aspartame is used as a sugar substitute in ice cream and yogurt. Several consumers said they use sugar free or low sugar ice cream… Continue reading
Do you have any family or friends who might be overweight or diabetic?
In the United States, 29 million people have diabetes. Consumers were asked how the disease changed the diet of diabetics they knew. Stories were told of how relatives used sugar free foods and beverages to help manage their blood sugar… Continue reading
Tangy Lemonade
Makes 8 Servings Ingredients 7 cups water 1 cup lemon juice 1 cup Equal Spoonful Ice cubes Fresh mint, optional Directions Combine all ingredients except mint. Stir until Equal is dissolved. Serve over ice, garnishing each glass with fresh mint, if desired. Nutritional Information Calories: 19 Protein: 0 g Carbohydrates: 5 g Fat: 0 g … Continue reading
Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars
Makes 24 Servings Ingredients Cooking spray 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter 1/4 cup butter, softened 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce 3 tablespoons sugar-free syrup 1/2 cup nonfat milk 2 large egg whites 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 cup all-purpose flour 1 cup Equal Spoonful 3/4 cup quick oats, uncooked 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/4 teaspoon salt … Continue reading
Marinated Carrot Salad
Makes 12 Servings Ingredients 2 pounds carrots, sliced, OR whole baby carrots 1 can (10-3/4 ounces) tomato soup 1 cup Equal Spoonful 1 medium onion, chopped 1 green bell pepper, chopped 3/4 cup wine vinegar 1/3 cup vegetable oil OR olive oil 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper … Continue reading
Strawberry Limeade
Makes 6 Servings Ingredients 1-1/2 cups quartered fresh strawberries 1 cup lime juice 4 cups water 1-1/2 cups Equal Spoonful Ice cubes 6 small whole strawberries, optional Directions Process quartered strawberries and lime juice in blender until smooth. Combine strawberry mixture, water and Equal in a pitcher. Pour over ice cubes in tall glasses, garnishing … Continue reading
Sparkling Fresh Lemonade with Blackberries
Makes 1 Serving Ingredients 1-1/2 cups sparkling water 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice 1/4 cup Equal® Spoonful 12 fresh blackberries, frozen Ice, as needed Fresh mint sprigs and lemon slices, optional Directions Stir sparkling water, lemon juice and Equal until combined. Place 6 blackberries and ice cubes in each of 2 tall glasses. Divide mixture … Continue reading
Heart Healthy Desserts
Most of us know what we’re supposed to do to live a healthy lifestyle. Recommendations include eating well, being physically active, reducing stress and getting enough sleep. But, we all know that is easier said than done. While cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death for both men and women in the US, the … Continue reading
Weight Management
By the Calorie Control Editorial Team Questions about the role of aspartame in weight management continue to provoke controversy, even after 30 plus years of use as an alternative to nutritive sweeteners. When viewed at the most fundamental level, a compound that provides very few or no calories cannot lead to weight gain, and if … Continue reading
PKU, Allergies and Other Sensitivities
By the Calorie Control Editorial Team Phenylketonuria Phenylketonuria, commonly known as PKU, is a rare inherited disorder that causes elevated levels of the amino acid phenylalanine in the blood. The buildup of phenylalanine is due to an inability of the liver to produce enough of the specific enzyme needed to metabolize phenylalanine after it is … Continue reading
Mood, Behavior, Cognition, Fibromyalgia and Alzheimer’s Disease
By the Calorie Control Editorial Team Reports that the consumption of aspartame is associated with changes in mood, behavior and cognition, as well as very serious health conditions like fibromyalgia and Alzheimer’s disease are largely unfounded. In fact, a large body of scientific evidence has shown aspartame cannot be credibly linked to any of these … Continue reading
Gastrointestinal Issues and the Gut Microbiome
February 13, 2017 By the Calorie Control Editorial Team Many of the questions asked about a possible association between aspartame consumption and gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms can be answered by reviewing its composition and what happens to it after ingestion. The key point is that it has the same destiny as many nutritious foods people eat … Continue reading
Epilepsy and Seizures
By the Calorie Control Editorial Team The claim that aspartame is associated with an increased risk of epilepsy is based on the anecdotal reports of individuals who happened to experience their first seizure soon after consuming an aspartame-containing food or beverage. This is not evidence of causation, but a temporal relationship between the widespread consumption … Continue reading
Diabetes and Blood Glucose Management
By the Calorie Control Editorial Team The etiology of type 1 and type 2 diabetes differ, but they share similar goals for medical nutrition therapy to help manage the disease and reduce potential complications from poor glycemic, lipid and blood pressure control. Evidence-based nutrition practice guidelines are essential for health professionals to provide the best … Continue reading
Cancer
By the Calorie Control Editorial Team Is aspartame related to cancer? The vast body of research conducted on aspartame over the last 30 years has found it does not cause cancer in humans, yet some people doubt the strength of the scientific evidence and continue to raise questions about a possible cancer risk related to … Continue reading
Lemon and Ginger Pops
Makes 8 Servings Ingredients 2 cups water 1 tablespoon finely chopped crystallized ginger 2-1/2 tablespoons Equal® Spoonful 3 lemons Directions Combine water and ginger in a small saucepan. Bring to boil on medium-high heat; remove from heat. Cool completely. Stir in Equal until dissolved.Remove zest from lemons, then juice lemons. Stir zest and juice into … Continue reading
Cool Peach Iced Tea
Makes 8 Servings Ingredients 4 peaches, peeled, pitted, sliced 9 cups water, divided 1 cup Equal® Spoonful 8 green tea bags Directions Place peaches and 1 cup of the water in blender or food processor. Puree until smooth; set aside.Bring remaining 8 cups water to boiling in a large saucepan. Add tea bags. Steep 5 … Continue reading
Yogurt Parfait with Granola and Berries
Makes 4 Servings Ingredients Granola 1 cup uncooked old fashioned oats 2 tablespoons sliced almonds 2 tablespoons chopped pecans 2 tablespoons Equal® Spoonful 1 tablespoon grape seed OR vegetable oil 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract Parfaits 16 ounces plain nonfat Greek yogurt 1 tablespoon Equal® Spoonful 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon 2 ounces fresh blueberries 2 ounces … Continue reading
Cold and Creamy Fruit Cups
Makes 12 Servings Ingredients 1 package (8 ounces) reduced-fat cream cheese, softened 1 cup reduced fat sour cream 1/3 cup Equal Spoonful 2 teaspoons lemon juice 1 cup coarsely chopped fresh OR canned drained peaches 1 cup fresh OR frozen unsweetened blueberries 1 cup fresh OR frozen unsweetened raspberries OR halved OR quartered strawberries 1 … Continue reading
Apple Raisin Oatmeal Cookies
Makes 4 Dozen Ingredients Cooking spray 1-1/4 cups Equal Spoonful1 cup unsweetened applesauce 1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar 6 tablespoons butter, softened 1 egg 1/3 cup 2% milk 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 2 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon salt 1-1/2 cups quick … Continue reading
Peppermint Hot Chocolate
Makes 4 Servings Ingredients 1/2 cup Equal Spoonful 1/3 cup water 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa 4 cups 2% milk 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract Lite whipped topping, optional 4 small candy canes, optional Directions Combine Equal, water and cocoa in a saucepan. Heat on medium heat, stirring constantly, to boiling. Boil and stir 1 minute. Stir … Continue reading
Healthy Eating Tips for the Holiday Travel Season
Robyn Flipse, MS. MA, RDN Consultant to the Calorie Control Council One of the best things about the holidays is the chance to spend time with the people we don’t get to see as often as we’d like throughout the year. But getting together with far-flung family and friends means we have to spend some … Continue reading
The Sleep-Weight Connection
Robyn Flipse, MS. MA, RDN Consultant to the Calorie Control Council If you’ve been gaining weight and not getting enough sleep lately, some new research suggests the problems are very likely connected. A study published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition reported that people who didn’t get enough sleep consumed an extra 385 calories … Continue reading
Making the Most of Holiday Meals
Falling in Love with Vegetables Fall brings cooler days, leaves changing colors and falling to the ground and a generous bounty of seasonal vegetables like spinach, winter squash and sweet potatoes. Readily available now at their peak of freshness, these vegetables are economical and easy to use in a variety of fall and winter meals. … Continue reading
Celebrate Fast Food Day with Healthy Choices
I recently discovered that fast food has its very own day – November 16! While fast food often gets a bad rap for being high in calories and fat, a couple of recent studies found it doesn’t stack up so badly compared to other dining spots. In a study out just last month comparing fast-casual … Continue reading
Apple Pie Smoothie
Makes 2 Servings Ingredients 1-1/2 cups 1% milk 1 medium Granny Smith apple, cored, diced 1/2 cup vanilla-flavored nonfat Greek yogurt 1/4 cup cooked unsweetened oatmeal, quick or old fashioned 1 tablespoon Equal® Spoonful 1 tablespoon sliced almonds 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon Directions Combine all ingredients in blender container; cover. Blend 1 to 2 minutes … Continue reading
Add Flavor with Pumpkin
The weather is cooling, the leaves are changing, and pumpkins are sitting on doorsteps…you know what that means – it’s Halloween season. A favorite holiday for many children, and adults, alike, Halloween is a food-centered holiday that is rated number one in candy sales in America. But don’t let the candy trick you into unhealthy eating … Continue reading
Fall in Love with Fall Fruits and Vegetables
Robyn Flipse, MS. MA, RDN Consultant to the Calorie Control Council Even if the weather doesn’t vary much where you live, you can use the seasonal changes on the calendar to reboot your diet for better health. All it takes is expanding the colors on your plate to feature whatever is being harvested. I mark … Continue reading
Pumpkin Nog
Makes 12 Servings Ingredients 12 large eggs 5 cups 2% milk 2 cups Equal Spoonful 1/2 cup canned pumpkin 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 1-1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon Ground nutmeg, optional Directions Whisk eggs and milk in a large heavy saucepan. Cook and stir on medium heat until the mixture coats a metal spoon. DO NOT … Continue reading
Lightening Up Favorite Fall Desserts
Out of all the seasons, fall is definitely my favorite time of year. I always look forward to cooler temperatures, trips to the pumpkin patch, walking through the apple orchard, and watching college football on Saturdays. I also look forward to the comfort foods with delicious flavors that I know I’ll enjoy during harvest season. … Continue reading
Breakfast: Fast, Fun and Filling
You’ve probably heard that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. While I wouldn’t say it’s the MOST important, it is certainly a meal you shouldn’t skip. And to highlight breakfast’s valuable role in our diet, September has been designated as Better Breakfast Month. Breakfast Benefits Breakfast not only fuels the body after … Continue reading
Garden Fresh Coleslaw
Makes 10 Servings Ingredients Dressing 1/2 cup rice vinegar Juice of 3 limes 2 teaspoons Equal® Spoonful 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard 1/2 cup grape seed oil 1/4 teaspoon salt Coleslaw 2 cups shredded Napa cabbage 2 cups peeled julienned jicama 2 cups shredded radicchio 1 cup julienned carrots 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion 1/2 … Continue reading
Fall Sports and Hydration for Young Athletes
Warm humid weather and intense high school sports practices, sometimes twice a day, lead to a lot of sweating and risk of heat exhaustion or more serious heat stroke. While hydration may not be at the top of the list for a successful athletic performance, it should be. According to the National Federation of State … Continue reading
Lemon Blueberry Mousse
Makes 6 Servings Ingredients 1-1/2 cups lite Greek vanilla flavored nonfat yogurt 1-1/2 cups lite whipped topping, thawed it frozen 1/3 cup Equal Spoonful 1 tablespoon grated lemon peel 1-1/2 cups fresh blueberries Fresh mint sprigs, optional Directions Combine yogurt, whipped topping, Equal and lemon peel. Fold in blueberries. Refrigerate 1 to 2 hours or … Continue reading
How to Stay Cool at the Pool
The heat can, at times, be unbearable during the summer months. Most individuals find ways of cooling off by spending time in sprinklers or at the pool. But sometimes, a day at the pool can have an unintended consequence: dehydration. If it’s hot enough, lounging poolside means you are sweating as your body tries to … Continue reading
Celebrate Fun, Flavor and Fitness during National Blueberry Month
Last weekend our friends gifted us with a bag of fresh blueberries they hand-picked at an East Texas blueberry farm. And how incredibly delicious they were! Nothing is as good as fruit fresh from the tree or vine. With July the peak season for blueberries, it’s no surprise that the U.S. Department of Agriculture proclaimed … Continue reading
Summer Coffee Cooler
Makes 4 Servings Ingredients 4 cups strong brewed French roast coffee 4 tablespoons Equal Spoonful 1 teaspoon ground cardamon 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon almond extract 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk Ice cubes Directions Combine all ingredients except milk. Cool to room temperature. Stir in milk and refrigerate until ready to serve. Serve over … Continue reading
Raspberry Peach Smoothie
Makes 4 Servings Ingredients 2 cups soy milk 1 cup low-fat plain yogurt 1 cup frozen unsweetened sliced peaches 1/2 cup frozen unsweetened red raspberries 1/2 cup Equal Spoonful 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/2 teaspoon almond extract Fresh mint, optional Additional sliced peaches, optional Directions Place all ingredients except additional peach slices and mint in … Continue reading
3 Must-Do’s for a Summer Picnic Filled with Food and Fun
While summer is made for family reunions, 4th of July celebrations, camping and cooking outside; it’s not a time we think of getting ill or putting on a few extra pounds. Yet, either of these can happen easily if we aren’t smart about our choices. With summer gatherings filled with food and fun, these three … Continue reading
Tips to Stay Healthy During Summer Vacation
It’s officially summer season, which means it’s time for summer getaways! Whether you’re headed to the beach or perhaps planning a staycation at home, a change in routine can sometimes makes it difficult to maintain healthy habits. Here are some tips for maintaining healthy habits while taking some time off this summer: Get plenty of … Continue reading
Exercise: It’s Medicine and Fun, Too
May is Exercise is Medicine Month, an annual initiative of the American College of Sports Medicine to create awareness of the important role physical activity plays in promoting health and preventing disease. Research finds that exercise helps reduce risk of several chronic conditions including diabetes, cancer, heart disease and obesity. Exercise and Calories In addition … Continue reading
Chocolate Chip Cookies
Makes 2 Dozen Ingredients 1/3 cup butter, softened 1 egg 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/3 cup Equal Spoonful 1/3 cup firmly packed light brown sugar 3/4 cup all-purpose flour 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or mini chocolate chips Directions Preheat oven to 350°F. Beat butter with electric mixer … Continue reading
5 Fabulous Recipes to Celebrate Beverages From Around the World
Robyn Flipse, MS. MA, RDN Consultant to the Calorie Control Council There are countless concoctions from around the world that play a starring role in the celebrations of other cultures, just like lemonade does in the USA on Independence Day. If you want to omit the alcohol from a classic cocktail, you can still capture … Continue reading
5 Ways to Maximize Your Spring Season
Let’s make a declaration – the New Year starts with spring! How can we argue with birds that are chirping outside of our windows, reminding us they have come back from the south? How can we disagree with the pinks and purples and the whites of spring blooms giving us a fresh look at previously … Continue reading
What 22,000 Adults Had to Say About Low-Calorie Sweeteners and Weight Loss
Research on regular users of low-calorie sweeteners has found they have better diets than nonusers. If that isn’t incentive to use them, I don’t know what is! Of course, adding a low-calorie sweetener to your coffee isn’t all it takes to become healthy and thin, but studies show it can be part of a healthy lifestyle … Continue reading
Banana Berry Smoothie
Makes 5 Servings Ingredients 2 cups lite vanilla flavored nonfat Greek yogurt 1 medium-size ripe banana, peeled, sliced 1/2 cup Equal Spoonful 3 tablespoons lemon juice 2 cups frozen unsweetened whole strawberries 1 cup frozen unsweetened red raspberries Additional whole strawberries, optional Directions Combine yogurt, banana, Equal and lemon juice in blender container; cover. Blend until smooth. Add … Continue reading
The Most Studied Low Calorie Sweetener Turns 35 This Year
Robyn Flipse, MS. MA, RDN Consultant to the Calorie Control Council The global population is aging at a faster rate than ever before in human history. Right now the number of people throughout the world over the age of 65 makes up 8.5 percent of the total population, or 671 million people, according to International … Continue reading
Tangy Lemon Squares
Makes 16 Servings Ingredients Crust 3/4 cup all-purpose flour 1/3 cup Equal Spoonful 1/8 teaspoon salt 6 tablespoons cold butter, cut into pieces 1 teaspoon grated lemon peel 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Filling 2 eggs 3/4 cup Equal Spoonful 1/2 cup lemon juice 4 tablespoons butter, melted 1 tablespoon grated lemon peel Directions Preheat oven … Continue reading
Diabetes and Low-Calorie Sweeteners
Whether you are managing type 1 diabetes (when your body is not producing insulin) or type 2 diabetes (when your body produces insufficient amounts of insulin or insulin that does not function correctly), managing blood glucose levels is critical. Careful planning includes considering meals, snacks, and physical activity since they can all affect your body’s … Continue reading
Taste of the Tropics
While neighbors and friends may be jet-setting off to the tropics for a mid-winter warm-up, you can bring the tropics right into your kitchen. Now is the perfect time to purchase tropical fruits. In season and at their nutritional peak, tropical fruits are immune-boosters, thanks to their many cold-kicking vitamins like vitamin C, vitamin A … Continue reading
Peanut Butter Granola Bites
Makes 30 Servings Ingredients Cooking spray 2 cups cornflakes 1 cup quick oats, uncooked 2/3 cup seedless raisins 1/2 cup chunky peanut butter 1/2 cup egg substitute OR 4 egg whites 1 cup Equal Spoonful 1 tablespoon honey 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon Directions Preheat oven to 350°F. Spray baking sheets with … Continue reading
This Valentine’s Day, Love Your Self
Around the world, every culture has put its own unique spin on Valentine’s Day, yet at the center is the act of celebrating the ones you love. Oftentimes this is demonstrated with food whether it be an elaborate dinner out, decadent dessert, a box of chocolates or all the above. But with a few tips … Continue reading
Double Chocolate Brownies
Makes 16 Servings Ingredients Cooking spray 1 cup Equal Spoonful 3/4 cup all-purpose flour 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips 6 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/4 teaspoon salt 6 tablespoons butter, softened 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce 2 eggs 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Chopped walnuts, optional Directions Preheat oven to 350°F. Spray an 8-inch … Continue reading
Warm Up This Winter with Roasted Vegetables
While many of you are probably looking forward to spring and summer produce, there are still plenty of wonderful vegetables that can be enjoyed during the winter months. For example, who doesn’t love a cup of homemade chicken noodle soup or potato chowder during the wintertime? Regardless of the season, you can always find flavorful … Continue reading
How to Stay Healthy When It’s Cold Outside
This year, the temperatures took a little longer than normal to realize the winter solstice had passed, but those winter temperatures have finally moved in across the country. Colder temperatures usher in the season of flu, colds, dry skin, seasonal depression and weight gain. Here are six ways to stay healthy even when it’s cold … Continue reading
Healthy Eating Update: 2015 Dietary Guidelines for Americans
On January 7, the U.S. Departments of Agriculture and Health and Human Services released the long-awaited 2015 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Published every five years, the 8th edition of the Guidelines provides information to help Americans make healthy eating choices. As a registered dietitian nutritionist, I was not surprised that, for the most part, the … Continue reading
Rice Pudding
Makes 6 Servings Ingredients 2 cups water 1 cinnamon stick, broken into pieces 1 cup converted rice (not instant rice) 4 cups nonfat milk 1/4 teaspoon salt 1 cup Equal Spoonful 3 egg yolks 2 egg whites 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/4 cup raisins Directions Heat water and cinnamon stick to boiling in a large … Continue reading
Apple Cranberry Streusel Pie
Makes 8 Servings Ingredients Pie Filling Pastry for single crust 9-inch pie 1-1/4 cups Equal Spoonful 1 tablespoon cornstarch 1-1/2 cups fresh OR frozen, thawed cranberries 1 cup unsweetened apple juice 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon salt 5 cups sliced cored peeled Granny Smith or other baking apples (about 5 … Continue reading
Holiday Eggnog
Makes 12 Servings Ingredients 1 cup egg substitute 1/2 cup Equal Spoonful 1-1/2 teaspoons rum extract 1-1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract 1 quart 2% milk 1 cup frozen lite whipped topping, thawed Freshly grated nutmeg, optional Directions Whisk together egg substitute, Equal and extracts. Stir in milk. Whisk in whipped topping until blended. Refrigerate, covered, at … Continue reading
5 + 5 = 10 Healthy Holiday Habits
The food, fun and family of Thanksgiving are now history and the upcoming December holidays bring more meals, parties and gift-giving festivities. With so many opportunities to indulge in delicious foods and beverages, how can we keep healthy eating and exercise habits from falling by the wayside? Well, it’s not all that difficult if you … Continue reading
Pumpkin Pie – Lighten or Leave Out?
It’s a tradition this time of year – pumpkin. It often graces our holiday tables in the form of pie. While pumpkin pie may finish the traditional holiday meal, there are many benefits to incorporating pumpkin throughout the holiday season and beyond. After all, pumpkin flavors are everywhere – from coffee to bread to snacks … Continue reading
Managing Diabetes during the Holidays with Artificial Sweeteners
With the Holidays right around the corner, this is the perfect time to focus on food and beverage choices especially if you struggle with diabetes or prediabetes. November is Diabetes Month and according to the American Diabetes Association, there are nearly 30 million children and adults in the United States that have diabetes. In addition … Continue reading
Pumpkin Roll
Makes 8 servings Ingredients Cake 3 eggs 1 cup Equal Spoonful 1 cup canned pumpkin 1 teaspoon lemon juice 1 cup self-rising flour 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg Filling 4 ounces reduced-fat cream cheese, softened 2 cups lite whipped topping, thawed, if frozen 2 tablespoons Equal Spoonful Directions Preheat oven to 350°F. … Continue reading
Halloween, Diabetes & Sweet Indulgences
How to Make the Right Choices Robyn Flipse, MS. MA, RDN Consultant to the Calorie Control Council It’s that time of year when our homes and offices become filled with an assortment of chocolatey, chewy and crunchy candies as we approach Halloween and its aftermath. I know I can’t resist grabbing a few fun-sized bags … Continue reading
Pumpkin Polka Dot Cookies
Makes 4 Dozen Cookies Ingredients Cooking spray 1/2 cup butter, softened 1-1/4 cups Equal Spoonful 3 tablespoons light molasses 1 cup canned pumpkin 1 egg 1-1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract 1-2/3 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking powder 1-1/4 teaspoons ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/4 teaspoon … Continue reading
Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Muffins
Makes 12 Servings Ingredients 1 cup canned pumpkin 1/2 cup vegetable oil 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce 4 egg whites, beaten 1 tablespoon molasses 1 cup all-purpose flour 3/4 cup whole wheat flour 1 cup Equal Spoonful 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking soda 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves 1/2 teaspoon salt … Continue reading
Create Healthier Eating Habits by Adding, Not Subtracting
As a registered dietitian nutritionist I am frustrated when I see headlines like, “5 Foods You Should Never Eat” or “Avoid These 10 Foods to Lose Weight.” I’ve never been a fan of categorizing foods as “good” or “bad”. One food won’t make or break your diet, cause you to gain or lose weight or … Continue reading
Fall in Love with Apples at the Orchard
A cool fall day calls for a bubbling hot apple pie in the oven to warm up the kitchen. And to get the most delight out of that pie, you must take your family to the apple orchard and bring home a bucket of hand-picked apples to enjoy. There will be enough apples to make … Continue reading
Apricot Walnut Swirl Coffee Cake
Makes 16 Servings Ingredients Cooking spray Walnut Filling 1/2 cup sugar free apricot preserves 1/2 cup Equal Spoonful 4 teaspoons ground cinnamon 1/2 cup chopped nuts Coffee Cake 2-1/2 cups reduced-fat baking mix (Bisquick®) 2 cups Equal Spoonful 2 tablespoons cornstarch 1 cup lite vanilla flavored nonfat Greek yogurt 6 tablespoons vegetable oil 1/3 cup … Continue reading
How Sweet is Your Coffee? Let Me Count the Ways…
Robyn Flipse, MS. MA, RDN Consultant to the Calorie Control Council It seems every food and drink is celebrated with its own day on the calendar and coffee is no exception. September 29th is designated National Coffee Day and there are sure to be plenty of people raising a mug to honor the occasion since … Continue reading
Lighten Up Classic Latin Beverages
Sylvia E. Meléndez Klinger, MS, RD, LDN, CPT Consultant to the Calorie Control Council Hispanic culture has given the world some of its favorite drinks, from hot chocolate to refreshing bebidas or licuados, the original smoothies. These delicious drinks are part of many everyday Hispanic meals, but if you are ready to incorporate them into … Continue reading
Raspberry Almond Bar Cookies
Makes 24 Bars Ingredients Cooking spray 2 cups all-purpose flour 1/2 cup Equal Spoonful 1/8 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup butter, cut into pieces 1 egg 2 tablespoons water 1 teaspoon grated lemon peel 1 jar (10 ounces) seedless raspberry spreadable fruit 3 tablespoons sliced almonds Directions Preheat oven to 350°F. Spray an 8-inch square baking … Continue reading
Cranberry Lime Margarita Punch
Makes 10 Servings Ingredients 6 cups water 1 container (12 ounces) frozen cranberry juice cocktail, thawed 1/2 cup fresh lime juice 1/4 cup Equal Spoonful 2 cups ice cubes 1 cup diet ginger ale OR tequila** 1 lime, thinly sliced Fresh cranberries, optional Lime slices, optional **May substitute 1 cup club soda for the ginger … Continue reading
Fit Food Choices for Family Fun Month
August is Family Fun Month, leaving plenty of time to enjoy summertime activities before school starts again. If theme parks, baseball stadiums or driving trips are on your August schedule, then food will surely be a part of your experience. Fortunately, many of these entertainment spots have a variety of food choices so you can … Continue reading
Celebrate National Ice Cream Month
Scorching summer days call for frosty ice cream nights. There’s nothing better on a warm summer evening, especially after a few hours of mowing the lawn, pulling weeds out of the garden or an afternoon of baseball or swimming. It doesn’t matter if the vanilla bean ice cream or the rich chocolate ice cream makes … Continue reading
Cucumber Tomato Salad
Makes 6 Servings Ingredients 1/2 cup rice vinegar* 3 tablespoons Equal Spoonful or Granulated 3 cups unpeeled 1/4-inch thick sliced cucumbers, quartered (about 2 medium) 2 cups chopped tomato (about 1 large) or cherry tomatoes 1/2 cup chopped red onion Salt and pepper to taste * Distilled white vinegar may be substituted for rice vinegar … Continue reading
No-Bake Orange Cream Cheesecake
Makes 16 Servings Ingredients Crust 1 cup graham cracker crumbs 3 tablespoons stick butter or margarine, melted 3 tablespoons Equal® Spoonful or Granulated* Cheesecake 1 cup orange juice 1 envelope (1/4 ounce) unflavored gelatin 2 packages (8 ounces each) reduced-fat cream cheese, softened 1 cup part-skim ricotta cheese 3/4 cup Equal® Spoonful or Granulated** 1 … Continue reading
No Bake, No Oven Meal Ideas for the Summer
Every year I look forward to the fun activities and flavors that summer weather brings. Whether it’s shopping at the local farmers market, attending an outdoor jazz festival, or catching a baseball game; the warmer temperatures provide a lot of opportunities to play outside with friends and family. But living in the Midwest, the temperature can … Continue reading
Sweet Frozen Treats
Robyn Flipse, MS. MA, RDN Consultant to the Calorie Control Council Those of us who live where there are four seasons throughout the year associate certain foods with certain seasons. A perfect example is eating frozen desserts, like ice cream, in the hot days of summer. But even if the temperature never gets too high … Continue reading
Prevent Weight Gain Just By Cutting 100 Calories a Day
The number of calories you should consume in a day will vary for each individual. To calculate how many a person should ingest each every day depends on age, height, gender, daily activity, and whether that individual would like to gain, lose or maintain their weight. Try out this calculator to determine your daily calorie … Continue reading
Grilled Salmon with Pineapple-Cilantro Sauce
Makes 6 servings Ingredients 1 medium pineapple, peeled, cored, cut into 1″ chunks 3/4 cup unsweetened pineapple juice 2 tablespoons lime juice 2 cloves garlic, minced 1/2 to 1 teaspoon minced jalapeño pepper 2 tablespoons minced cilantro 1 tablespoon cornstarch 2 tablespoons cold water 2 to 3 tablespoons NutraSweet® Spoonful™ or the equivalent of your … Continue reading
Yogurt in Every Kitchen – A Must Have in the Summer
While most of us sleep until sunrise, most dairy farmers are awake long before beginning their daily routine of milking and caring for cows that provide nutritious and wholesome dairy products that feed our families. While I don’t always think of the hard work that goes into that milk jug each time I reach for … Continue reading
Low-Calorie Methods to Stay Hydrated this Summer
In the summer, many of us are spending more time outside, whether it’s going for a walk or run around our neighborhood, hiking the trails near our houses, heading to the beach and lake, or just hanging out in the park. Many of us will be on the go and will need quick and convenient … Continue reading
Sorting out Food Allergies, Intolerances and Sensitivities
Food allergies, intolerances and sensitivities seem to be more and more prevalent or at least we’re hearing more about them with our 24/7 news via traditional, Internet and social media channels. But what’s the difference and how can you truly know if you have one? Keep reading for the lowdown. A food allergy is an … Continue reading
Sticking to Low-Cal throughout Your Day
Whether you are at home or at work, lunch is often a meal that has to be squeezed in around other to-dos for the day. A few easy habits can help prevent over-eating and a few more tips for your meals will help you get the most out of your day. You don’t have to … Continue reading
Start Your Day off Right with a Low-Cal Breakfast
With summer here, so comes a renewed interest in how we will fit all of the outdoor activities into our schedules. Being social may mean you feel you have less ability to make calorie conscious decisions about what you and your family eats each day. There will be meals and days where your best intentions … Continue reading
Debunking Diet Soda Myths
For over 60 years, consumers have enjoyed sugar-free sodas that provide sweet and fizzy refreshment without the calories of the regular kind. From the early days of Diet Rite Cola and TaB sweetened with cyclamate and saccharin, to the modern day with diet sodas being sweetened with aspartame, the soda industry has evolved to provide … Continue reading
Gardening – Is it the Key to Health?
What if I told you that you could simply plant a garden each year and it could contribute to lower blood pressure or better health? According to the Mayo Clinic, the research on how to lower blood pressure is quite strong, – things like be at a healthy weight, eat healthy foods and lower your … Continue reading
Dr. Debra Judelson comments on “Diet Soda Intake Is Associated with Long-Term Increases in Waist Circumference in a Biethnic Cohort of Older Adults”
March 23, 2015 — This study supports the finding that overweight and obese older adults may try to lose weight using many methods, including reducing caloric intake and diet sodas, to name a few methods. Since the study was not a placebo controlled double blinded study, it only advises us that obese people are more … Continue reading
One More Study Adds to Aspartame Sweetener’s Clean Bill of Health
Research Found No Differences in Sensitivities, even Among People Self-reporting Ailments (ATLANTA) — A new study commissioned by the Food Standards Agency (the group responsible for food safety in Europe) and published in the journal Plos One demonstrates that aspartame is not the cause of various sensitivities, even among people who believe they are “aspartame … Continue reading
Bite Into a Healthy Lifestyle
According to Sonja Connor, registered dietitian nutritionist and president of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, “Achieving optimal health is not about a specific food or time or year, but rather a life-long commitment that leaves plenty of time for the foods and activities we love.” To get started on a healthy lifestyle, consider these … Continue reading
Grilled Steak and Vegetable Salad
Makes 6 Servings Ingredients 1-1/2 pounds beef flank steak, fat trimmed, scored 6 medium Italian plum tomatoes, cut into wedges 1 medium green pepper, sliced 1 medium sweet onion, cut into small wedges 4 ears corn, cooked, cut into 1-1/2 inch pieces Fresh Herb Vinaigrette 1/3 cup red wine vinegar 1/4 cup water 3 tablespoons … Continue reading
Love Your Heart: Cutting Back on Added Sugar
Did you know that heart disease is the number 1 killer of women? It’s hard to believe that more women die of heart disease than cancer. In fact, ninety percent of women have one or more risk factors for developing heart disease. That news might be heart breaking, but it doesn’t have to break yours. … Continue reading
Orange Cranberry Cookies
Makes 24 Servings Ingredients 1/4 cup stick butter, softened 1 egg 3 tablespoons frozen orange juice concentrate, thawed 3/4 cup all-purpose flour, sifted 1/4 cup quick or old-fashioned oats, uncooked 1/3 cup Equal Spoonful or Granulated* 1/4 teaspoon baking soda 1/8 teaspoon cream of tartar Dash salt 1 teaspoon grated orange peel 1/2 cup dried … Continue reading
Ham with Cherry Sauce
Makes 16-24 Servings, 3 ounces per Serving Ingredients Ham 3-5 pound fully cooked ham Whole cloves Fresh parsley sprigs Cherry Sauce 2 cans (14.5 ounces each) red tart pitted cherries in juice, undrained 2/3 to 3/4 cup unsweetened pineapple juice 4 teaspoons lemon juice 1/4 cup cornstarch 1 cup Equal Spoonful or Granulated Directions For Ham, … Continue reading
American Cancer Society Researchers Find No Increased Risk of Cancer from Aspartame Consumption
ATLANTA (October 31, 2014) – A large, prospective study of more than 100,000 older men and women has concluded that moderate aspartame consumption is not associated with an increased risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). In the study, published in the Journal of Nutrition, researchers from the American Cancer Society used data from participants in the … Continue reading
New Comment from Calorie Control Council on the Safety of Aspartame
ATLANTA (October 24, 2012) — Over 200 studies have demonstrated the safety of aspartame, and nutrition experts and regulatory bodies world-wide continue to reaffirm that the low-calorie sweeteners such as aspartame are safe for all populations. Aspartame is one of the most thoroughly studied food ingredients in the food supply. In fact, aspartame has been tested for … Continue reading
Zucchini Salad
Makes 6 Servings Ingredients 1 pound zucchini, unpeeled 1 medium sweet onion, sliced thinly 1 bunch radishes, sliced thinly 1/2 cup cider vinegar 1/3 cup water 1 tablespoon olive or vegetable oil 1/2 cup Equal Spoonful or Granulated 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper 1/4 teaspoon dried marjoram or tarragon, crushed (optional) 12 cups … Continue reading
Study found Low-calorie Beverages Common Among Weight Loss Maintainers
September 5, 2014 Drinking low- and no-calorie sweetened beverages, including diet sodas, are common among people who have maintained significant weight loss, according to a new study published in Obesity. In the study, researchers surveyed individuals in the National Weight Control Registry in which participants have maintained a weight loss of at least 30 pounds … Continue reading
Drinking Low-Calorie Sweetened Beverages Common Among Weight Loss Maintainers
ATLANTA (September 5, 2014) —Drinking low- and no-calorie sweetened beverages, including diet sodas, are common among people who have maintained significant weight loss, according to a new study published in Obesity. In the study, researchers surveyed individuals in the National Weight Control Registry in which participants have maintained a weight loss of at least 30 … Continue reading
Blueberry Pie
Makes 8 Servings Ingredients 6 cups fresh or 2 packages (16 ounces each) frozen unsweetened blueberries 3 tablespoons lemon juice 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons Equal Spoonful or Granulated* 6 tablespoons cornstarch Pastry for double crust 9-inch pie Directions Preheat over to 400° F. Toss blueberries and lemon juice in large bowl. Sprinkle with combined … Continue reading
Barbecued Beans
Makes 4 Servings Ingredients 1 slice bacon 1/2 cup chopped onion 1/2 cup ketchup 2 tablespoons white vinegar 2 tablespoons water 1 teaspoon prepared mustard 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce Salt and Pepper 1 can (15-1/2 ounces) Great Northern beans, drained 1/3 cup Equal Spoonful or Granulated Directions Cut bacon into 1-inch pieces. Cook in medium … Continue reading
Spicy Thai Slaw
Makes 8 Servings Ingredients 1 medium head green cabbage, finely shredded 3 tomatoes, seeded, chopped 3 carrots, peeled, shredded 1/4 cup fish sauce* Zest and juice from 1 large lime 4 teaspoons Equal Spoonful or Granulated 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 teaspoon dried red pepper flakes Optional Additions: 1 cup shelled edamame 1 red pepper, … Continue reading
Patriotic Cheesecake
Makes 16 Servings Ingredients 3 cups vanilla wafer crumbs 3 tablespoons NutraSweet® Spoonful™ 1 cup skim milk 1 package (3 ounces) reduced-fat cream cheese, softened 1 tablespoon grated lemon rind 1/3 to 1/2 cup NutraSweet® Spoonful™ 2 pints raspberries 4 tablespoons margarine, melted 1 envelope (1/4 ounce) unflavored gelatin 2 packages (8 ounces each) reduced-fat … Continue reading
Aspartame Might Reduce Fat Storage According to Animal Model
ATLANTA (April 10, 2014) — A recent study has found that aspartame reduced fat storage and increased a marker of lifespan in an animal model. In the study, the researchers concluded that their findings “imply that aspartame, either alone or in combination with other sweeteners, inhibits pathways that favor intestinal fat deposition.” Additionally, the researchers … Continue reading
Southern Style Mustard BBQ Chicken Kabobs
Makes 6 Kabobs Ingredients 1-1/2 cups ketchup 1 cup prepared mustard 1/2 to 2/3 cup cider vinegar 1/2 cup Equal Spoonful or the equivalent of your favorite sweetener 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 1/2 teaspoon maple extract 1/2 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper 2 tablespoons stick butter or margarine 1-1/2 pounds skinless, boneless chicken breasts, cut … Continue reading
Cran-Apple Oatmeal
Makes 2 Servings Ingredients 2 cups 2% milk 1/3 cup dried cranberries 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon salt 1 cup old-fashioned OR quick oats, uncooked 3/4 cup chopped apple 2 tablespoons Equal Spoonful 2 tablespoons chopped pecans, optional 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract Directions Combine milk, cranberries, cinnamon and salt in a medium saucepan. Bring to … Continue reading
Chocolate Almond Coffee
Makes 1 Serving Ingredients 1 cup strongly brewed hot coffee 1 tablespoon Equal Granulated or the equivalent of your favorite sweetener 2 teaspoons unsweetened cocoa powder 1/4 teaspoon almond extract Light whipped cream (optional) Directions Combine all ingredients in a mug until blended. Serve immediately. Top with a small dollop of light whipped cream for … Continue reading
EFSA Review Shows Aspartame is Safe
ATLANTA (December 10, 2013) — The Calorie Control Council* is pleased that the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) today released a final opinion on aspartame that reaffirms what scientists and healthcare professionals have known for years: aspartame is safe. Following a comprehensive review of studies on aspartame and its metabolites, EFSA has concluded that there is no reason … Continue reading
Everything You Wanted to Know About Aspartame, with Robyn Flipse
We sat down with Robyn Flipse, a registered dietitian specializing in food, nutrition and health communications, to talk about aspartame and debunk many of the myths that surround this extensively researched low calorie sweetener. Robyn has over 25 years of experience and has written two books, The Wedding Dress Diet and Fighting the Freshman Fifteen. You can catch up … Continue reading
CNN.com: Sugar Free Soda is Safe
Diet soft drinks and artificial sweeteners have been under attack in recent years by the media, despite plenty of science to show their safety and benefits. Indiana University professor Dr. Aaron Carroll and CNN’s Dr. Sanjay Gupta have stated that they support the safety and use of aspartame, in response to Coca-Cola’s ad campaign that … Continue reading
Study Reaffirms the Safety of Aspartame
ATLANTA (July 26, 2013) — A new review in Food and Chemical Toxicologyreaffirmed the safety of aspartame. The study,” Aspartame, low-calorie sweeteners and disease: regulatory safety and epidemiological issues,” examined the research that has been done over the past 22 years on the safety aspartame. The researchers concluded that: aspartame does not cause health problems … Continue reading
Fruit Trifle
Makes 12 Servings Ingredients Milk Custard 1 cup skim milk 2 eggs 2 tablespoon flour 1/4 tsp. ground nutmeg 3 to 4 tablespoon NutraSweet Spoonful Trifle 1 package (18.25 ounces) light yellow cake mix 1-1/3 cups water 3 egg whites 2 cups sliced strawberries 2 to 3 tablespoons NutraSweet® Spoonful™ Milk Custard (see recipe below) … Continue reading
New Research Analyzing 35 Years of Data Confirms Positive Effects of Low-Calorie Sweeteners in Weight Loss
ATLANTA (May 13, 2013) — A new study recently presented at the Experimental Biology 2014 Conference in San Diego, CA found the use of low-calorie sweeteners resulted in reductions in body weight. Researchers also concluded that the use of products containing low-calorie sweeteners do not lead to weight gain or cravings. For the meta-analysis study, researchers … Continue reading
Cranberry Spritzer Punch
Makes 12 Servings Ingredients 3 cups water 2 cups cranberry juice 1 can (6 ounces) frozen orange juice concentrate, thawed 1 can (6 ounces) frozen lemonade concentrate, thawed 12 packets of Equal® or NatraTaste Blue® sweetener 1-1/2 liters diet lemon-lime soda, chilled Mint leaves and pomegranate seeds for garnish (optional) Directions Combine water, cranberry juice, … Continue reading
EFSA Draft Opinion on Aspartame Reconfirms Safety
ATLANTA (January 8, 2013) — The Calorie Control Council is pleased that the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) today released a draft opinion report that reaffirms what scientists and healthcare professionals have known for years: aspartame is safe. In January 2013, following a comprehensive review of studies on aspartame and its metabolites, EFSA concluded that there is no … Continue reading
Study on Saccharin, Aspartame and Weight Gain in Rats Are Illogical and Not Applicable to Humans
ATLANTA (December 7, 2012) — Findings presented in a study titled “Saccharin and aspartame, compared with sucrose, induce greater weight gain in adult Wistar rats, at similar total caloric intake levels” are illogical. No changes in nutrition recommendations should be considered on the basis of this study. The Calorie Control Council cites the following as … Continue reading
Pumpkin Cheesecake in Gingersnap Crust
Makes 16 Servings Ingredients Crust: 1-1/4 cups gingersnap crumbs 4-1/2 packets Equal sweetener 3 tablespoons stick butter or margarine, melted Cheesecake: 3 packages (8 ounces each) reduced-fat cream cheese, softened 30 packets Equal sweetener 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon salt 1 cup canned pumpkin 2 eggs 2 egg whites 2 … Continue reading
Pecan Praline Sweet Potato Pie
Ingredients Praline Topping 2/3 cup chopped pecans 2/3 cup Equal Spoonful 1/4 cup sugar-free syrup 2 tablespoons butter, melted Pie Filling Pastry for single crust 9-inch pie 2 cups cooked mashed sweet potatoes (about 2 pounds) 1/2 cup Equal Spoonful 2 eggs 1 teaspoon rum extract OR 2 tablespoons rum 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 … Continue reading
Sugar-Free Sweet Potato Pie
Makes 8 Servings Ingredients Pastry for single-crust 9-inch pie 2 cups cooked, mashed sweet potatoes (about 2 pounds) 2 eggs, lightly beaten 1 cup Equal Spoonful 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon lemon juice 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 can (12 ounces) evaporated nonfat … Continue reading
Recent Study on Aspartame and Cancer Critically Flawed
Over 200 Studies Demonstrate the Safety of Aspartame ATLANTA (Oct. 24, 2012) Findings presented in “Consumption of Artificial Sweetener and Sugar Containing Soda and the Risk of Lymphoma and Leukemia in Men and Women” are weak, misleading, and critically flawed. The study has numerous limitations, as noted by the authors themselves. Based on these facts, consumers … Continue reading
Sweet & Spicy Sun Tea
Makes 8 Servings Ingredients 8 cups water 1 cup Equal Spoonful 6 to 8 bags orange pekoe tea bags 2 cinnamon sticks, broken in half 6 whole cloves 1 orange, cut into 8 slices, optional Fresh mint sprigs, optional Directions Pour water into large container with cover that seals. Stir in Equal until dissolved. Place … Continue reading
Pulled Pork Barbecue
Makes 6 Servings Ingredients 1 whole pork tenderloin, (about 1 pound), all fat trimmed 2 teaspoons chili powder, divided 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder Cooking spray 1/2 cup minced onion 1-1/2 teaspoons minced fresh garlic 1 can (14.5 ounces) crushed tomatoes, undrained 1 tablespoon cider vinegar 1 tablespoon yellow mustard 1/4 teaspoon maple extract 1/4 teaspoon … Continue reading
New Statement from American Heart Association and American Diabetes Association Supports Low-Calorie Sweeteners as Useful Substitutes for Sugar
ATLANTA (July 10, 2012) – Using low-calorie sweeteners in beverages and other foods has the potential to help people reach and maintain a healthy body weight and is helpful for glucose control for people with diabetes, according to a new scientific statement from the American Heart Association and the American Diabetes Association. The statement is … Continue reading
Safety and Benefits of Aspartame Confirmed in Updated Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Position Paper
The low-calorie sweetener aspartame can be safely enjoyed as part of a healthy diet guided by current nutrition recommendations, according to a newly updated position paper by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (formerly the American Dietetic Association). The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (the Academy) is the world’s largest organization of food and nutrition … Continue reading
Another Study Shows Positive Weight Loss Results after Switching to Diet Soda
ATLANTA (February 24, 2012) — A new study shows that using diet soda can help shed pounds. For the study, conducted at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, researchers randomly assigned 318 overweight adults to one of three groups: one that drank water; one that drank diet beverages; and a control group (who only … Continue reading
Aspartame Can Help You Stick to Your Diet!
Aspartame helps with many aspects of your weight loss journey that you may not realize. It can help reduce calories in your food and beverages and also helps people trying to control their short and long term blood sugar levels. Aspartame can sweeten food and beverages without the additional calories in your diet. It allows … Continue reading
Calorie Control Council Response to American Diabetes Association Presentation by Fowler et al
ATLANTA (June 30, 2011) – The Calorie Control Council takes this opportunity to respond to a presentation at the 2011 American Diabetes Association Meeting. The presentation, “Aspartame Consumption is Associated with Elevated Fasting Glucose in Diabetes-Prone Mice” alleges an association between aspartame and fasting glucose. It is important to note that this study has not … Continue reading
Research on Diet Soft Drinks and Waist Circumference Among Aging Population is Not Based on Sound Science
ATLANTA (June 29, 2011) – The Calorie Control Council stated today that research findings reported during a presentation at the 2011 American Diabetes Association Meeting claiming an association between the use of diet soft drinks and waist circumference are not based on sound science. The presentation, “Diet Soft Drink Consumption Is Associated with Increased Waist … Continue reading
Survey: Most Americans are Weight Conscious
More than 186 million American adults – or eight out of ten men and women aged 18 and older – are “weight conscious”, according to a new national survey released this week by the Calorie Control Council. Five out of ten (54%) want to reduce their weight and noted that exercise, cutting back on sugar, using … Continue reading
European Food Safety Authority Reconfirms Safety of Low-Calorie Sweeteners
In February 2011, following a comprehensive review of two recent studies questioning the safety of low-calorie sweeteners, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) concluded that these new studies do not give reason to reconsider the previous safety evaluations of aspartame or other low-calorie sweeteners (intense sweeteners) authorized in the European Union. As is the normal … Continue reading
Research Shows Sugar Substitutes Reduce Caloric Intake without Overeating or Hunger
ATLANTA (July 22, 2010) — A study published in the August 2010 journal, Appetite, further demonstrates that people who consume low-calorie sweeteners are able to significantly reduce their caloric intake and do not overeat. In fact, study participants who received the sugar substitutes instead of sugar consumed significantly fewer calories and there was no difference in hunger levels … Continue reading
American Dietetic Association’s Evidence Analysis Library Review of Aspartame Complete
ATLANTA (May 18, 2009) — The American Dietetic Association (ADA) recently evaluated the low-calorie sweetener aspartame and its effects on weight, appetite, desire for sweetness and alleged adverse reactions for its Evidence Analysis Library (EAL). After the evaluation, the ADA reaffirmed the conclusion of regulatory and scientific authorities around the world that aspartame is not associated … Continue reading
European Food Safety Authority Reconfirms Safety of Aspartame; EFSA Releases Opinion on Ramazzini Study
ATLANTA (April 21, 2009) — The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has once again confirmed the safety of aspartame. After a comprehensive review of data, EFSA’s Scientific Panel on Food Additives, Flavourings, Processing Aids and Materials in Contact with Food (AFC) stated, “Overall, the Panel concluded on the basis of all the evidence currently available … Continue reading
Comprehensive Review of More than 500 Studies Re-affirms the Benefits and Safety of Aspartame
September 11, 2007 A comprehensive review of more than 500 studies evaluating aspartame once again puts the rumors and myths to rest. A panel of eight leading experts in the areas of toxicology, epidemiology, metabolism, pathology, biostatistics etc., conclusively determined that aspartame is safe. The review, “Aspartame: A Safety Evaluation Based on Current Use Levels, … Continue reading
Leading Scientists Around the World Confirm Safety of Aspartame
ATLANTA (September 11, 2007) — A comprehensive review of more than 500 studies evaluating aspartame once again puts the rumors and myths to rest. A panel of eight leading experts in the areas of toxicology, epidemiology, metabolism, pathology, biostatistics etc., conclusively determined that aspartame is safe. The review, “Aspartame: A Safety Evaluation Based on Current Use Levels, … Continue reading
Low-Calorie Sweeteners Are Helpful in Weight Control
ATLANTA (June 27, 2007) — A new review of research shows low-calorie sweeteners may be one piece of the puzzle in helping solve the obesity problem. Although not magic bullets, low-calorie sweeteners and the products that contain them can help people reduce their calorie intake. The authors point out that low-calorie sweeteners are not appetite suppressants and … Continue reading
FDA, Others Affirm Safety of Aspartame
June 25, 2007 The Calorie Control Council stated that a rat study conducted by Italy’s Ramazzini Institute is totally contradictory to the extensive scientific research and regulatory reviews conducted on aspartame. The U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) has said they are not recommending any changes in the use of aspartame. On April 20, 2007, … Continue reading
Recent Study Shows No Association Between Low-Calorie Sweeteners and a Variety of Cancers
February 26, 2007 A new study conducted by Italian and French researchers and published in the Annals of Oncology indicates there is no association between low-calorie sweeteners and cancer. The researchers evaluated a variety of studies between the years of 1991 and 2004. These studies assessed the relationship between low-calorie sweeteners and many cancers including … Continue reading
Meta-Analysis Indicates Aspartame Effective for Weight Loss
ATLANTA (October 5, 2006) — Foods and beverages sweetened with aspartame can help consumers lose weight, according to a recent review of previous aspartame studies published in the June issue of the British Nutrition Foundation Nutrition Bulletin. Researchers examined 16 randomized controlled trials of aspartame and its effect on caloric intake and body weight. Fifteen of the … Continue reading
Comprehensive Review of Ramazzini Study Demonstrates No Scientific Evidence of Aspartame and Cancer Link
May 5, 2006 The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) announced today there is no reason to recommend any dietary change in regard to the low-calorie sweetener, aspartame. The report from EFSA’s Scientific Panel on Food Additives, Flavourings, Processing Aids and Materials in Contact with Food (AFC) specifically states, “In its opinion published today, the Panel … Continue reading
New NIH/NCI Study Confirms Safety of Aspartame
ATLANTA (April 4, 2006) – A new epidemiology study from the National Cancer Institute confirms previous study conclusions that there is no link between aspartame consumption and leukemias, lymphomas and brain tumors. The study, presented today at the American Association of Cancer Research meeting in Washington, D.C., evaluated over 500,000 men and women between the … Continue reading