Artificial Sweeteners May Be Harmful To Brain Health
A study by researchers at University of São Paulo in Brazil suggests that high consumption of certain artificial sweeteners is linked to an accelerated rate of cognitive decline, especially in people with diabetes and those under 60. The team analyzed data on over 12,700 Brazilian adults being tracked for eight years, assessing their intake of seven low- and no-calorie sweeteners and testing their memory, language, and thinking skills over time.
They found that those in the study group who consumed the most sweeteners had a 62 percent faster cognitive decline compared to those who consumed the least — equivalent to about 1.6 years of aging. The link was stronger in those with diabetes. The sweeteners linked to faster cognitive decline included aspartame, saccharin, acesulfame-K, erythritol, xylitol, and sorbitol. These sweeteners are commonly found in diet sodas, flavored waters, low-calorie desserts, and other ultra-processed foods.
Try this recipe today: Creamy Tomato Soup
Sign up for more Dr. Weil newsletters!
