A new study warns about the risks of artificial sweeteners

Using artificial sweeteners instead of sugar has become common to watch calorie intake. However, a new study in Neurology suggests that these substitutes could affect cognitive health in the long term.

The study analyzed more than 12,000 adults and found that those who consume high levels of sweeteners experience mental decline 62% faster. This would be equivalent to aging 1.6 years all at once.

The scope of the study

Data from the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health (ELSA-Brasil) was used, following 12,772 public employees for eight years. There were evaluations at three points: 2008-2010, 2012-2014, and 2017-2019.

What was analyzed

Through detailed questionnaires, scientists measured the consumption of seven sweeteners: aspartame, saccharin, acesulfame K, erythritol, xylitol, sorbitol, and tagatose.

Meanwhile, they assessed memory, verbal fluency, and general cognition with six different tests.

Main results

The consumption of sweeteners, both individually and combined, was linked to accelerated cognitive decline. The effects were more notable in people under 60 years old, suggesting that middle age is a critical time to care for brain health.

Authors' interpretation

The researchers warn that, although sweeteners are perceived as "healthy," frequent consumption could have negative effects on the brain. Animal studies have already shown that these compounds can induce neuroinflammation and affect the gut-brain axis.

Limitations and precautions

The study is observational and based on self-reports, so it doesn't prove direct causality. Organizations such as the ISA and the British Soft Drinks Association recommend interpreting the results with caution.

This is not about returning to sugar, but about questioning which alternatives we choose to sweeten our diet. Responsible and conscious consumption remains important to care for brain health.