Summary:
The consumption of low- and no-calorie sweeteners (LNCSs) has been linked to faster cognitive decline, particularly in younger individuals, according to a study published in Neurology. Researchers analyzed data from over 12,000 participants in Brazil and found that higher intake of LNCSs was associated with declines in verbal fluency, memory, and global cognition. The study highlights the potential risks of these sweeteners, which are often marketed as healthier alternatives to sugar, on brain health.
What This Means for You:
- Limit consumption of low- and no-calorie sweeteners to reduce potential cognitive risks.
- Opt for natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup in moderation as alternatives.
- Monitor cognitive health proactively if you regularly consume LNCSs.
- Stay informed on emerging research regarding the long-term effects of artificial sweeteners.
Intake of low-, no-calorie sweeteners tied to faster cognitive decline:
Consumption of low- and no-calorie sweeteners (LNCSs) is associated with faster cognitive decline, according to a study published online Sept. 3 in Neurology.
Natalia Gomes Gonçalves, Ph.D., from the Universidade de São Paulo in Brazil, and colleagues examined the association between LNCS consumption and cognitive decline in a longitudinal observational study using data from civil servants aged 35 years and older at baseline who were enrolled in the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health. Combined and individual intake of seven LNCSs was calculated using a Food Frequency Questionnaire.
The mean LNCS consumption was 92.1 ± 90.1 mg/day among 12,772 participants. The researchers found that during eight years of follow-up, consumption of combined LNCSs in the highest tertiles was associated with a faster decline in verbal fluency and global cognition among participants aged younger than 60 years. Among participants aged 60 years and older, no association was seen between tertiles of LNCSs and cognitive decline. A faster decline in global cognition, particularly in memory and verbal fluency domains, was seen in association with consumption of aspartame, saccharin, acesulfame k, erythritol, sorbitol, and xylitol. Consumption of combined LNCSs in the highest tertiles was associated with a faster decline in verbal fluency and global cognition and with a faster decline in memory and global cognition among individuals without and with diabetes, respectively.
“Low- and no-calorie sweeteners are often seen as a healthy alternative to sugar; however, our findings suggest certain sweeteners may have negative effects on brain health over time,” coauthor Claudia Kimie Suemoto, M.D., Ph.D., also from the Universidade de São Paulo, said in a statement.
More information: Natalia Gomes Gonçalves et al, Association Between Consumption of Low- and No-Calorie Artificial Sweeteners and Cognitive Decline, Neurology (2025). DOI: 10.1212/WNL.0000000000214023
Thomas Monroe Holland, The Dark Side of Sweet, Neurology (2025). DOI: 10.1212/WNL.0000000000214129
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Citation: Intake of low-, no-calorie sweeteners tied to faster cognitive decline (2025, September 7) retrieved 7 September 2025 from https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-09-intake-calorie-sweeteners-faster-cognitive.html
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Extra Information:
For further insights, explore these resources: WHO guidelines on sweeteners, NIH research on LNCS and health, and Harvard Health on artificial sweeteners. These links provide additional context on the health implications of sweetener consumption.
People Also Ask About:
- Are artificial sweeteners safe? While FDA-approved, emerging research suggests potential risks.
- What are the best natural sweeteners? Options like stevia and monk fruit are considered healthier.
- Can sweeteners cause weight gain? Some studies link them to increased appetite and weight.
- How do sweeteners affect gut health? They may disrupt gut microbiota balance.
- Should I avoid all artificial sweeteners? Moderation and informed choices are key.
Expert Opinion:
Dr. Claudia Kimie Suemoto emphasizes that while LNCSs are marketed as healthy, their long-term effects on brain health warrant caution. This underscores the need for further research and consumer awareness.
Key Terms:
- Low-calorie sweeteners
- Cognitive decline
- Brain health
- Artificial sweeteners risks
- LNCS consumption
- Verbal fluency
- Memory decline
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