A meta-analysis reports that short-term trials of alternative sweeteners did not show harm but some observational studies suggest possible increased total energy intake in habitual users. Which conclusion is the most balanced and evidence-based?

• A. Since short-term trials show no harm, all observational findings suggesting increased intake are irrelevant and can be ignored when forming dietary guidance for any individual.
• B. Limited use of alternative sweeteners is not conclusively harmful and they can be part of a healthful diet, but unresolved questions remain about appetite regulation and compensatory eating that warrant cautious interpretation and further research.
• C. Alternative sweeteners are definitively harmful and will always lead to weight gain because observational data alone provide conclusive evidence of causation between sweetener use and higher total energy intake.
• D. Alternative sweeteners have been proven to cause dramatic metabolic changes in all populations and should be banned from all food products to protect public health.

Answer: (B)