Study links common artificial sweeteners to gut changes and possible diabetes risk
A human trial found that short-term consumption of saccharin, sucralose, aspartame or stevia altered gut microbes and, for some sweeteners, impaired glucose tolerance.
In a controlled experiment, the Elinav Lab at the Weizmann Institute recruited 120 volunteers who normally avoid artificial sweeteners and divided them into six groups. Four groups each received a different sweetener—saccharin, sucralose, aspartame or stevia—at amounts below the acceptable daily intake, while two groups received none. After two weeks, all sweeteners had reshaped the gut microbiome and altered the small molecules released into the bloodstream, each in a distinct manner.
Saccharin and sucralose additionally caused a measurable decline in glucose tolerance, a marker linked to metabolic disease. Lead scientists highlighted the personalized nature of the response and urged long-term research to determine health implications. Nutrition specialists on a podcast emphasized that the results raise concerns about the widespread use of these additives and their possible contribution to diabetes risk.
Why it matters
The study suggests everyday sweeteners may disrupt gut health and increase diabetes risk, affecting millions who use them.
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