Can artificial sweeteners accelerate cognitive decline?
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Synopsis
A groundbreaking study highlights the potential dangers of artificial sweeteners on cognitive health. With alarming findings indicating a link between sweetener use and accelerated cognitive decline, this research is crucial for those who regularly consume these products, particularly individuals with diabetes. Explore the implications of these findings for your health.
Key Takeaways
- Prolonged use of artificial sweeteners may lead to cognitive decline.
- High consumers experienced a 62% faster decline in memory and thinking.
- Moderate use is also linked to significant cognitive deterioration.
- Chronic exposure may increase brain vulnerability.
- WHO has raised concerns about the safety of non-nutritive sweeteners.
New Delhi, Sep 13 (NationPress) A recent study suggests that prolonged consumption of artificial sweeteners or low- and no-calorie sweeteners, predominantly utilized by individuals with diabetes, could result in cognitive decline.
Researchers from the Universidade de São Paulo in Brazil examined a cohort of 12,000 patients who regularly consume popular artificial sweeteners, including aspartame, saccharin, xylitol, erythritol, sorbitol, tagatose, and acesulfame K.
The findings, published in the Neurology journal, revealed that participants consuming the highest quantities experienced a staggering 62 percent decline in cognitive functions such as thinking and memory, compared to those who consumed lower amounts.
This decline equated to an additional 1.6 years of brain aging.
“We know that both sugar and its substitutes elevate the risk of diabetes and various cancers. They are also associated with brain vascular cell dysfunction,” stated Dr. Manjari Tripathi, head of the neurology department at AIIMS. She recommended limiting their intake.
The study further indicated that individuals consuming artificial sweeteners moderately experienced a 35 percent faster decline in memory and cognitive functions, as well as a 110 percent increase in the rate of verbal fluency degradation.
For those in the high consumption category, the decline in memory and cognitive functions was 62 percent more pronounced, and their drop in verbal fluency was 173 percent faster.
Dr. Anshu Rohatgi, Vice-Chairperson of Neurology at a local hospital, expressed concern regarding the effects most commonly seen in diabetics, especially as the prevalence of diabetes continues to rise.
Rohatgi elaborated that chronic exposure to these sugar alternatives may be rendering the brain more susceptible to damage.
“These artificial sweeteners might be inducing neuroinflammation, which could contribute to cognitive decline. Another possibility is that they may be disrupting the gut microbiome,” Rohatgi added.
A 2024 study led by the Chennai-based Madras Diabetes Research Foundation (MDRF) indicated that substituting table sugar (sucrose) with a modest amount of natural and artificial non-nutritive sweeteners (NNSs) like sucralose in daily drinks such as coffee and tea may not adversely affect glycemic markers like glucose or HbA1c levels.
This study, published in the journal Diabetes Therapy, found that individuals who used sucralose in pellet, liquid, or powder form saw slight improvements in body weight, waist circumference, and body mass index (BMI).
In 2023, the World Health Organization (WHO) raised alarms among healthcare professionals and the public regarding the use of NNS, even among those with diabetes.
Point of View
I believe it's vital to approach the findings of this study with a balanced perspective. While the research indicates potential risks associated with artificial sweeteners, further investigation is needed to fully understand the implications. We must prioritize informed choices and public health guidance in our discourse.
NationPress
13/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main finding of the study on artificial sweeteners?
The study found that long-term use of artificial sweeteners can lead to cognitive decline, with significant impacts on memory and thinking abilities.
Which artificial sweeteners were studied?
The research examined various artificial sweeteners, including aspartame, saccharin, xylitol, erythritol, sorbitol, tagatose, and acesulfame K.
What are the health implications of consuming artificial sweeteners?
Prolonged consumption of artificial sweeteners may increase the risk of cognitive decline and could be linked to other health issues, such as diabetes and cancer.
Who should be concerned about this study?
Individuals, especially those with diabetes who frequently consume artificial sweeteners, should take note of these findings.
What alternatives to artificial sweeteners are suggested?
Natural sweeteners or moderate use of non-nutritive sweeteners like sucralose may be safer options, according to recent studies.
