SWEET MAPS: A Conceptualization of Low-Calorie Sweetener Consumption Among Young Adults.

backgroundThe extent to which low-calorie sweeteners (LCSs) are helpful or harmful for weight management and metabolic health is unclear, because LCS effects may depend on the context in which they are consumed.

objectiveTo develop a conceptual framework for LCS consumption.

methodsYoung adults ages 18-35 y, who reported LCS consumption, were recruited from a private, urban, university in the mid-Atlantic United States. Concept mapping, a mixed-method approach was used to identify, organize, and quantify determinants of LCS consumption. First, participants (

resultsThe SWEET MAPS identified 37 determinants, organized within 8 factors reflective of 3 overarching motives: perceived health benefits, palatability, and accessibility of LCSs. At the determinant level, the most highly rated determinants that exceeded the boundary (rating >3.0) were: "I want something that tastes sweet," "I am trying to maintain/control my weight," "They contain fewer calories," "They are available," and "I want to save calories because I am eating a high-calorie meal."

conclusionsLCS consumption is a function of many inter-related determinants spanning biological, psychological, and social domains. The SWEET MAPS are an important and novel use of concept mapping methods that can be used to inform the design and interpretation of future studies evaluating LCS effects.