BOSTON: A new research finds out that low calories and artificial sweetness may not be harmless for the health, as the consumer assume about it and could have small but measurable effects on blood sugar and metabolism, according to scientists at Tufts University.
The study, published in current Atherosclerosis reports, analyzed 21 clinical trials in adults. It found that people who consumed non-nutritive sweeteners showed higher fasting insulin levels and increased HbA1c, a marker used to track long term blood sugar control. Some results also pointed to reduced insulin sensitivity compared with people who used water or other non-caloric controls.
Researchers said the findings suggest these sweeteners may directly affect the body, not just replace sugar without impact. They noted that the results were clearer because the analysis compared sweeteners with non-calorie alternatives, helping isolate their effects.
One possible reason for the changes may be the gut micro biome. Some trials showed that certain sweeteners can alter gut bacteria, which may influence how the body processes sugar and energy.
The review also looked at long term population studies. Those studies found a link between artificial sweetener use and a higher risk of cardio metabolic diseases, although researchers cautioned that people at higher health risk may be more likely to use these products, which can affect results.
Experts involved in the study said the evidence is still developing, but it raises concerns about long term use. They added that replacing large amounts of sugar with low-calorie sweeteners may still be useful in some cases, but they should not be assumed to be completely risk free.
