The message for us to cut back on sugar is loud and clear. The average American eats more than 70 pounds of it per person, per year. The American Heart Association suggests replacing sugary foods and beverages with artificial sweeteners as a way “to limit calories and achieve or maintain a healthy weight.” Artificial sweeteners lend sweetness without adding extra calories, but they may not be as beneficial as you’d think. Click here to learn more about the reasons to think twice about artificial sweeteners.