How do artificial sweeteners affect health?

Artificial sweeteners are chemicals our taste receptors identify as sweet, and our body cannot deconstruct them. This is why they can have practically zero calories.

Artificial sweeteners are used instead of sugar in many ways, most often in sweet drinks with zero calories and zero sugar.

Much debate has been held about these sweeteners, whether they are really a healthier option, and how they affect the body.

On the one hand, there are claims that these sweeteners increase cancer risk, disrupt blood glucose levels, and negatively affect different functions of the digestive system.

On the other hand, most big healthcare providers consider them safe, and they have helped many people drop sugar and regulate their body weight.

Some research has shown an association with neurological symptoms such as headaches and changes in the sense of taste. There is also a risk of allergic reactions. Research has shown a connection between artificial sweeteners and cardiovascular diseases and diabetes. The effect these sweeteners have on the digestive system is also significant, changing the gut biome, gastrointestinal mobility, intestine absorption, and permeability. Still, most research shows no connection to the risk of cancer.

Some studies have shown artificial sweeteners to be a good tool for weight regulation in people who are battling obesity because they do not contain calories from sugar. They are also used in oral pharmaceutical products, significantly increasing their use worldwide.

Many factors influence the difficulty of measuring the effects of artificial sweeteners. People often “compensate” for the calories they haven’t consumed with something else. In studies, sugar is completely exchanged for sweeteners, while sweeteners usually just partially alter the diet in reality. Many variables interact with the intake of artificial sweeteners, making conducting large studies and reaching clear evidence difficult.

Research suggests that artificial sweeteners have real effects on the development of diseases and health problems. It is essential to understand that these products and their impact on health aren’t prominent, even though producers will claim them to be entirely safe without concern about the lack of scientific evidence.

Artificial sweeteners in specific amounts can help regulate carbohydrates, calories, weight, and blood glucose levels. Calorie limitations should be calculated based on many factors, such as age, sex, nutritive status, and physical activity. A holistic plan for a healthy diet can include artificial sweeteners and must be carefully constructed.

Research suggests that certain high-risk groups need to pay close attention when consuming these sweeteners. These groups are children, pregnant women, lactating women, people suffering from diabetes, and people suffering from epilepsy.

This text is intended for informational purposes only. If you experience any symptoms, it is recommended that you seek advice from your doctor or a qualified healthcare professional.

Ghusn, W., Naik, R., & Yibrin, M. (2023). The Impact of Artificial Sweeteners on Human Health and Cancer Association: A Comprehensive Clinical review. Cureus. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.51299

Sharma, A., Amarnath, S., Thulasimani, M., & Ramaswamy, S. (2016). Artificial sweeteners as a sugar substitute: Are they really safe? Indian Journal of Pharmacology, 48(3), 237. https://doi.org/10.4103/0253-7613.182888