Researchers in Brazil investigated the effects of six common artificial sweeteners: aspartame, saccharin, potassium acesulfame, erythritol, xylitol, and sorbitol.
A Daily Mail report says regular consumption of these sweeteners was linked to faster declines in memory, speech, and other cognitive abilities.
The reasons are still under study. Preliminary data suggest some sweeteners can break down into toxic compounds that damage brain cells or even promote blood clot formation in blood vessels.
What Does “A Lot” Mean?
You don’t need much to see negative effects. Researchers found that people who consumed 190 to 200 milligrams of sweeteners daily—about the amount in a single can of diet soda—had brains that appeared, on average, 1.6 years older than those who consumed them less frequently.
Even people who used small amounts (less than one packet of sweetener per day) showed some cognitive decline.
Who Is Most at Risk?
The study, which involved over 12,000 adults, ran for eight years. The strongest effects were seen in middle-aged participants, especially those with preexisting metabolic conditions.
In contrast, among older participants (60+), sweetener use did not have a significant impact on brain function. That may be because cognitive changes in older age happen independently of diet.
There Is a Safe Alternative
Researchers also looked at tagatose—a natural sweetener found in some fruits and dairy products—and found no link between tagatose and cognitive decline. It could be a safer option for people who want to cut back on artificial sweeteners.
Key Takeaways
Artificial sweeteners have long been seen as a convenient way to manage weight and blood sugar. New findings suggest even small amounts may speed up brain aging.
Rather than reaching for diet “zero-calorie” drinks, choose more natural options—fresh fruit or natural sweeteners. Those choices may help both body and mind stay healthier longer.
Photo: Openverse
