A recent study warns that excessive use of artificial sweeteners could negatively affect mental health, particularly cognitive function. The research, which tracked over 12,000 adults for nearly eight years, found that people who consumed higher amounts of these sugar substitutes experienced a faster decline in memory and thinking abilities.
This effect was especially pronounced in diabetic patients, who often use sweeteners to manage their diet. However, it’s important to note that while the study shows a strong correlation, it does not prove that artificial sweeteners are the direct cause of this cognitive decline.
Key Findings from the Research
The study, published in the medical journal Neurology, examined the effects of seven common artificial sweeteners: aspartame, saccharin, acesulfame-K, erythritol, xylitol, sorbitol, and tagatose. All of these, except for tagatose, were associated with a faster decline in cognitive function.
Participants were divided into three groups based on their daily intake:
- Low users (an average of 20 mg per day)
- Medium users
- High users (an average of 191 mg per day)
The results showed that those in the highest consumption group had a 62% faster decline in thinking and memory skills compared to the lowest group. This is the equivalent of about 1.6 years of brain aging.
Expert Recommendations and Future Research
Health experts are emphasizing that while the link is concerning, more research is needed to fully understand the relationship between artificial sweeteners and brain health. They suggest that the safest approach is to limit or avoid these products altogether. The study’s authors note that for some people, particularly those with diabetes, the benefits of avoiding sugar may still outweigh the risks of artificial sweeteners, but caution is warranted.
If you have concerns about your diet, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the right approach for you.
