Artificial sweeteners are developed to act as substitutes for sugar. They are often used in products marketed as “sugar-free” or “diet” options. Some commonly used artificial sweeteners include sucralose, acesulfame K (ACE K), aspartame, sorbitol, stevia, and saccharin. While these sweeteners may seem like a healthier alternative to sugar, it is important to understand their potential drawbacks and why it is best to avoid them. 

Initially, artificial sweeteners were believed to be effective in treating obesity and diabetes. However, recent studies have shown that their impact on our health is less positive than once thought. Research has indicated that artificial sweeteners can affect glucose absorption in the intestinal tract, as well as insulin and incretin secretion in both humans and animals.

Moreover, artificial sweeteners have been found to alter the composition of our gut microbiota (1), which refers to the community of microorganisms in our digestive system. These changes in the gut microbiota can worsen blood sugar control, by affecting its regulation. This is particularly concerning for individuals who have diabetes or are at risk of developing the condition.

Additionally, the early consumption of ACE K has been found to diminish our taste response to sugar (2). This means that over time, we may require more sugar to experience the same level of sweetness. This can result in consuming more sugary foods and beverages, which can potentially contribute to weight gain and related health problems.

Furthermore, a large cohort study revealed that consuming high amounts of artificial sweeteners was associated with various risks (2). These risks included higher all-cause mortality (the risk of dying from any cause), cardiovascular risk, coronary artery disease risk, cerebrovascular risk (risk of stroke), and cancer risk (3). These findings give rise to concerns regarding the potential long-term effects of artificial sweeteners on our health.

Considering these findings, it is important to reconsider the use of artificial sweeteners as a solution for treating diabetes and obesity. If someone chooses to replace sugar with artificial sweeteners, it is crucial to monitor their blood glucose levels and body weight over time. It is worth noting that using artificial sweeteners from an early age can lead to insensitivity to sweetness. This insensitivity can negatively affect our health, increasing the risk of cardiovascular problems and overall mortality.

It is best to be cautious about using artificial sweeteners. Instead of relying on these substitutes, it is recommended to limit the intake of sugary foods and drinks in general. Opting for natural, whole foods and maintaining a balanced diet is a healthier approach to managing our sugar consumption and promoting overall well-being.

Our health is a lifelong journey, and making informed choices from an early age is crucial for a happy and healthy future. By understanding the potential risks of artificial sweeteners and prioritising the use of natural alternatives, we can take control of our health and make choices that support our well-being.

References-

• Bian X, Chi L, Gao B, et al. The artificial sweetener acesulfame potassium affects the gut microbiome and body weight gain in CD-1 mice. PloS One. 2017;12(6):e0178426.
• Iizuka K. Is the use of artificial sweeteners beneficial for patients with diabetes mellitus? The advantages and disadvantages of artificial sweeteners. Nutrients. 2022;14(21):4446.
• Debras C, Chazelas E, Srour B, et al. (2022). Artificial sweeteners and cancer risk: Results from the NutriNet-Santé population-based cohort study. PLoS medicine. 2022;19(3):e1003950.