A recent study conducted in Brazil has raised significant concerns about the consumption of artificial sweeteners, suggesting they may accelerate brain ageing. Researchers monitored the cognitive health of over 12,000 adults over an eight-year period, discovering a troubling correlation between the intake of six common sweeteners and cognitive decline. The sweeteners involved in the study include aspartame, saccharin, acesulfame potassium, erythritol, xylitol, and sorbitol.
The findings indicate that individuals consuming the highest amounts of these sweeteners experienced an average increase in brain ageing of approximately 1.6 years compared to those who consumed the least. Notably, the heavy-use group averaged around 190 to 200 mg per day, roughly equivalent to a single can of Diet Coke.
Potential Mechanisms Behind Cognitive Decline
Researchers suspect that these artificial sweeteners may break down into harmful compounds that could damage brain cells or exacerbate inflammation within the brain. In particular, the study highlighted erythritol, which has also been associated with reduced blood flow and an increased risk of stroke. The impact of these sweeteners appeared most pronounced in middle-aged adults, especially among those living with diabetes, but no such effects were observed in participants over 60 years of age.
Dr. Thomas Monroe Holland, a researcher at Rush University in Chicago, emphasized the long-term implications of dietary choices made during midlife, stating, “What we eat in midlife could affect your brain health for years to come.” These insights underscore the importance of making informed nutritional decisions, particularly regarding the use of artificial sweeteners.
Comparative Analysis with Natural Sweeteners
Interestingly, the study identified tagatose, a natural sweetener found in fruits and dairy products, as the only one tested that showed no association with cognitive decline. This raises questions about the safety and effects of various sweeteners on brain health, prompting a reevaluation of dietary habits.
As public awareness surrounding nutrition continues to grow, this research serves as a critical reminder of the potential consequences of artificial sweeteners. Consumers are encouraged to consider these findings when making dietary choices, particularly when it comes to products marketed as low-calorie or sugar-free. With ongoing research necessary to further investigate these findings, the implications for public health remain significant.
