Those looking to shed a few pounds by using artificial sweeteners to cut calories may not only be sabotaging their diet, but may be putting themselves at risk for diabetes and related health threats. This is a conclusion that can be drawn from several studies, including recently published article in the journal Endocrine Practice and an older study published in Nature. But, of course, if we ask the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), they would say it's safe.
Artificial sweeteners cause changes in gut bacteria, leading to elevated blood glucose levels
A review article published in Endocrine Practice focused on studies that evaluated the long-term and neurohormonal effects of artificial sweeteners, including saccharin (E954), aspartame(E951) and sucralose (Sucralose is a calorie-free sweetener that is 600 times sweeter than sugar, under the E number E955). What the researchers found is troubling changes in the intestinal microbiome – which indicates an inflammatory pattern of intestinal microbiota – in acute and chronic users of artificial sweeteners. An older study reached similar disturbing conclusions. Scientists have found that non-caloric sweeteners can damage gut health, promoting glucose intolerance in mice and some people. The observed changes were almost identical to the intestinal changes previously associated with obesity and diabetes in humans, the researchers pointed out. They found that mice given a 10 percent solution of one of three commonly used artificial sweeteners—aspartame, saccharin, or sucralose—had elevated blood glucose levels after 11 weeks compared to mice given plain water or even 10 percent glucose solution. Elevated glucose, sometimes called hyperglycemia, is associated with diseases such as insulin resistance, early heart disease, diabetes, and other serious health complications. The condition is also associated with a higher mortality rate.
Saccharin was found to have the most pronounced effects on gut health of the three artificial sweeteners used, although all affected the microbiome and, consequently, glucose levels. In subsequent experiments, mice were fed a high-fat diet along with a 10 percent saccharin solution. The resulting effect on glucose metabolism mimicked the results obtained when the animals were fed a regular diet and a much higher dose of saccharin. This suggests that higher fat consumption may enhance the metabolic effect of saccharin. Metagenomic sequencing revealed that mice given saccharin had a different profile of gut bacteria than those given water or a glucose solution. The researchers were then able to identify a specific microbe-mediated mechanism that allows artificial sweeteners to affect glucose metabolism.
Higher blood glucose levels increase the risk of diabetes and heart disease
The team found a similar metabolic response and change in gut bacteria in humans. Looking at a group of 381 non-diabetic volunteers who answered questions about their eating habits, those who reported consuming artificial sweeteners also showed higher fasting glucose levels. These same subjects showed poorer glucose tolerance and altered gut microbial profiles compared to those who did not consume artificial sweeteners. These differences were more pronounced when higher amounts of artificial sweeteners were consumed and existed even when the results were adjusted for body mass index.
Delusional dieters risk illness and premature death
The results of the mice and human trials add to the evidence that consumption of artificial sweeteners may actually lead to obesity and diabetes, rather than help consumers avoid these conditions. Although the link had been hinted at in previous studies, Weizmann's experiments were significant because they provided concrete evidence of how these sweeteners alter the population of gut bacteria. A healthy gut bacteria profile is important because these microbes are responsible for directing metabolism, converting food into energy for the body or as stored fuel for later use.
Unfortunately, artificial sweeteners are some of the most commonly used food additives in the world. Sugar intolerants and those looking to lose weight are drawn to products containing these alternative sweeteners. Don't be lured into danger by false marketing tactics. A growing body of evidence shows that the use of aspartame, sucralose and other artificial sweeteners has metabolic consequences. Substituting a sweet taste without the calories can come in the form of serious health problems. Is it worth the risk?
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