Artificial Sweeteners May Speed Up Brain Ageing by 1.6 Years: Study

Artificial sweeteners are often marketed as a healthier, low-calorie substitute for sugar. However, new research suggests that these sugar alternatives could come at a hidden cost to your brain health. A recent study has revealed that artificial sweeteners may accelerate cognitive ageing, making the brain age 1.6 years faster in heavy consumers.

Why People Choose Artificial Sweeteners

Many people switch from sugar to artificial sweeteners, believing they are making a healthier choice. These substitutes help cut calories and reduce the risk of blood sugar spikes, making them popular in “diet” or “sugar-free” products such as:

Flavoured yoghurts
Diet sodas
Flavoured waters
Low-calorie desserts

But despite being low in calories, this study highlights that artificial sweeteners may not be risk-free.

What the Study Found

Published in the journal Neurology, the study followed more than 12,700 adults for eight years. Researchers closely monitored the intake of common sweeteners such as:

Aspartame
Saccharin
Acesulfame-K
Erythritol
Xylitol
Sorbitol
Tagatose

Participants were grouped based on how much of these sweeteners they consumed.

The results were striking: people with the highest intake showed faster declines in memory and thinking skills compared to those who consumed little or none. In fact, drinking the equivalent of just one diet soda daily was linked to a 62% faster decline in cognitive function, which translated to the brain ageing an extra 1.6 years.

What This Means for Everyday Choices

These findings suggest that products labelled “sugar-free” or “low-calorie” should not automatically be considered safe for long-term brain health. While artificial sweeteners can reduce calorie intake, their potential impact on cognitive function should not be ignored.

Smarter Swaps

Instead of relying on packaged foods and drinks with artificial sweeteners, consider healthier alternatives such as:

Fresh yoghurt with a drizzle of honey or fruit
Water infused with lemon, mint, or cucumber
Moderation with natural sugar sources

Conclusion

Artificial sweeteners may seem like a healthier alternative to sugar, but this study shows they could speed up brain ageing and contribute to cognitive decline. Cutting back on artificially sweetened products and opting for natural, minimally processed options may help protect long-term brain health.

Source: Inputs from various media Sources

Priya Bairagi

Copy-Writer & Content Editor

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I’m a pharmacist with a strong background in health sciences. I hold a BSc from Delhi University and a pharmacy degree from PDM University. I write articles and daily health news while interviewing doctors to bring you the latest insights. In my free time, you’ll find me at the gym or lost in a sci-fi novel.