5 On Your Side shares the truth about sugar vs. artificial sweeteners

Maybe not.

Sugar is low on nutrition and high in calories - but it can also contribute to a host of health problems, says Consumer Reports Health Editor Ellen Kunes.

“Type 2 diabetes and heart disease, and that’s just for starters," Kunes said. "And weight gain is connected to sugar consumption (and) that can cause other health problems. We’re talking about high blood pressure, stroke, even some cancers.”

So what are the guidelines?

Sugars found in fruits, milk and other whole foods - are generally fine.

The trouble really begins with added sugars.

They're everywhere, but should make up no more than 10 percent of your daily caloric intake, experts say.

That’s about 10 teaspoons on a 1,600 calorie-a-day diet -- and that's a lot,

Many people turn to low calorie sweeteners, but some research says they do little to help with weight loss and may actually promote weight gain. Those sweeteners have also been linked to possible heart problems and Type 2 diabetes.

“If you’re trying to get yourself off sugar, substitutes can be a useful tool,” Kunes said. “But just for a limited amount of time.”

Why?

Your body can get used to a certain level of sweetness, whether it’s from real sugar or sugar substitutes.

Consumer Reports recommends limiting both.