In a recent study published in the journal Cell, researchers have uncovered new evidence suggesting that sugar substitutes, commonly found in diet drinks and other low-calorie products, may have an impact on our bodies beyond just providing a sweet taste without the calories. The study focused on four nonnutritive sweeteners – saccharin, sucralose, aspartame, and stevia – and found that two of these sweeteners, saccharin and sucralose, were linked to spikes in glucose levels and changes in gut microbe profiles.
The study, which involved 120 participants, aimed to understand whether the findings observed in mice regarding microbiome changes and blood glucose responses to sugar substitutes would translate to humans. Participants were carefully selected to ensure they did not regularly consume noncaloric sweeteners in their daily lives. Over the course of two weeks, participants consumed one of the four sweeteners or a filler substance, while undergoing oral glucose tolerance tests and providing oral and stool samples for analysis.
The results showed that participants who consumed saccharin or sucralose had a more significant blood glucose response compared to other groups. Additionally, all participants who consumed any of the four sugar substitutes experienced changes in their gut bacteria profiles during the study period. These changes were accompanied by alterations in metabolic products, such as increased production of a specific amino acid associated with diabetes in participants who took saccharin.
To further investigate the link between microbial profiles and blood glucose responses, the researchers administered microbiomes from participants with the highest and lowest blood glucose spikes to germ-free mice. The mice exposed to microbiomes from “top responders” mirrored the blood glucose changes observed in the human donors.
While these findings suggest that sugar substitutes may have an effect on blood glucose levels and gut microbe profiles, it is important to note that the study involved healthy individuals without overweight or obesity. The personalized response to these sweeteners may vary depending on an individual’s health status. Therefore, the implications for people with conditions such as diabetes or impaired glucose tolerance are yet to be determined.
The study authors acknowledge that more research is needed to fully understand the potential effects of sugar substitutes on human health. They also highlight that the study’s timeframe was limited to two weeks, and it is unclear whether these effects would persist beyond that period.
It is worth noting that this study provides valuable insights into the potential impact of sugar substitutes on our bodies. However, it is essential to consider these findings within the broader context of an individual’s overall health and dietary habits. More research is needed to determine the long-term effects and whether these findings apply to a wider population.
As always, it is advisable to consult with healthcare professionals or registered dietitians for personalized advice regarding dietary choices and sugar intake.
