Heredity, increasing age and being male are also regarded as risk factors by AHA, but they cannot be changed. AHA just upgraded the status of obesity from a contributing risk factor to a major risk factor for heart attack due to strong scientific evidence of obesity's impact on heart disease risk and due to the increased prevalence of the condition in the population. Modest achievable weight loss can also help control diabetes in some people. One reason cited for the epidemic is that although Americans are eating a lower percentage of total calories from fat, they are eating more calories overall. But for people watching their waistlines, research shows that sweeteners such as saccharin and aspartame can help keep calories down as part of a diet and exercise program.
Experts say it's natural for the American population to crave sugary food products.
However, in excess these products can contribute unnecessary calories to the diet. He also notes that several studies have shown that sugar substitutes can help people maintain weight loss. But FDA stands behind its original approval of aspartame, and subsequent evaluations have shown that the product is safe. More on aspartame on this site. More on aspartame misinformation circulating on the Internet.