A recent study from the University of São Paulo in Brazil indicates that several popular artificial sweeteners may be associated with accelerated cognitive decline, including faster aging of the brain. The research focused on seven sweeteners: aspartame, saccharin, acesulfame K, erythritol, xylitol, sorbitol, and tagatose, commonly found in low-calorie and sugar-free products.
In the study, six of these sweeteners—aspartame, saccharin, acesulfame K, erythritol, xylitol, and sorbitol—were linked to a more rapid decline in overall mental performance, particularly in memory-related functions. Tagatose was the only sweetener examined that did not show a correlation with faster cognitive decline.
Researchers tracked nearly 13,000 participants in Brazil for eight years, assessing their cognitive functions through tests measuring word recall, short-term memory, and information processing. Those who consumed the highest amounts of sweeteners showed a 62% faster decline in mental performance compared to those with the lowest intake, a difference equivalent to about 1.6 years of accelerated aging. Even moderate consumers experienced a 35% faster decline, comparable to 1.3 extra years of aging.
The study observed that adults under 60 consuming the most sweeteners showed faster declines in verbal fluency and overall mental performance, a pattern not seen in older participants. The association was also more pronounced in individuals with diabetes, a group that often relies on sugar substitutes. Approximately 40.1 million Americans have diabetes, making this finding particularly relevant.
Despite the findings, the study authors noted several limitations, including the fact that not all artificial sweeteners were tested, and the data relied on participants' self-reported dietary information. As an observational study, it established a link but could not definitively prove causation. Further research is needed to confirm these results and explore alternative sweeteners.
The findings contribute to an ongoing discussion about the long-term effects of dietary choices on cognitive health. With about 40% of U.S. adults regularly consuming artificial sweeteners, these alternatives are widespread in the food supply as consumers and food companies increasingly seek lower-calorie options.