A recent study published in the journal Neurology suggests that artificial sweeteners commonly found in diet soda and other low-calorie beverages may be contributing to accelerated brain aging and cognitive decline. The research, involving 12,772 adults, found that individuals consuming the highest levels of sweeteners such as aspartame, saccharin, and acesulfame-K experienced significantly faster declines in memory and thinking abilities. The study, led by researchers at the University of São Paulo, indicates that these effects may be particularly pronounced in younger adults under 60, especially those with diabetes, but not in older populations. While the findings raise concerns, the researchers caution that more studies are needed to confirm causation and fully understand the long-term consequences of artificial sweetener consumption.
The study, which tracked participants over an eight-year period, revealed that the highest-consuming group lost approximately 1.6 years in extra brain aging, with a 62% faster decline in cognitive function. Participants were asked to complete regular questionnaires about their dietary habits, and the researchers focused on the consumption of seven artificial sweeteners found in soda, energy drinks, flavored water, yogurt, and low-calorie desserts. The specific sweeteners examined included aspartame, saccharin, acesulfame-K, erythritol, xylitol, sorbitol, and tagatose. Among those who consumed the sweeteners, the highest group had an average of 191 milligrams per day, while the lowest group consumed an average of 20 milligrams.
The researchers found that, except for tagatose, all other sweeteners were associated with a faster decline in cognition, especially memory. Study author Claudia Kimie Suemoto, from the University of São Paulo, noted that while more research is needed, the findings highlight the importance of critically evaluating the use of artificial sweeteners as a sugar alternative.