Scientists tested 39 sweeteners and uncovered surprising gut effects
Researchers at the University of Cambridge found that many common artificial sweeteners can negatively alter gut bacteria growth. Some combinations, such as sweeteners with antidepressants, may further disrupt the microbiome and impact immune responses.
Why it matters
Given the ubiquity of sweeteners in modern diets, understanding their potential impact on the gut microbiome is essential for long-term public health and dietary guidelines.
Common sweeteners may be doing much more inside our bodies than simply replacing sugar. Scientists at the University of Cambridge have discovered that many widely used sweeteners can directly interfere with the growth of gut bacteria, and their effects can become even more pronounced when combined with medications or other everyday substances.
In laboratory experiments involving 39 sweeteners and 25 species of gut bacteria, researchers found that roughly three-quarters of the sweeteners altered the growth of at least one bacterial species. Some slowed or completely stopped the growth of microbes associated with a healthy digestive system.
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