Study: Excessive Use of Sugar Substitutes May Be Linked to Cognitive Decline

A study in the journal Neurology followed 12,772 adults in Brazil over 8 years and found that high consumption of certain low-calorie sweeteners is associated with a 62% faster cognitive decline compared to lower consumption, equivalent to an additional 1.6 years of cognitive aging. The association was stronger in those under 60 and those with diabetes, but the study is observational and does not prove causation.

A recent study published in the journal Neurology, a publication of the American Academy of Neurology, revealed that high consumption of certain low-calorie or zero-calorie sweeteners may be associated with faster decline in memory and cognitive abilities in adults. The study followed approximately 12,772 adults in Brazil over 8 years and focused on seven sweeteners, including aspartame, saccharin, acesulfame potassium, erythritol, xylitol, sorbitol, and tagatose. Results showed that participants who consumed the highest amounts of these sweeteners experienced cognitive decline about 62% faster compared to those who consumed the least, while the difference for the moderate consumption group was about 35%. According to researchers, the difference between the highest and lowest consumption groups equated to about 1.6 additional years of cognitive aging during the follow-up period. Consumption of six of the seven sweeteners was associated with faster decline in some memory and thinking functions, while no clear association was found between tagatose and cognitive decline. The association was more pronounced in participants under 60 years old and in those with diabetes, with potential influence from other factors such as diet, health status, and consumption of ultra-processed foods. The researchers emphasized that the study is observational and does not prove that sweeteners directly cause cognitive decline, nor did it examine the incidence of dementia or Alzheimer's disease. Additionally, the results do not cover all sugar substitutes, as the study did not test other common sweeteners like sucralose and stevia. The findings suggest caution when consuming products labeled 'diet' or 'sugar-free,' without implying that sugar is a healthy alternative.