Study suggests some sweeteners affect gut bacteria
A University of Cambridge study indicates that many common artificial sweeteners can alter the growth of gut bacteria in laboratory settings. While the findings challenge the perception that sweeteners are biologically inactive, researchers note that human effects remain unproven.
Why it matters
Understanding the impact of food additives on the microbiome is critical for public health and dietary guidelines.
Scientists say some commonly used sweeteners alter the growth of gut bacteria in lab tests, although the effects in humans remain unclear. (Pinterest pic)
LONDON: Artificial and low-calorie sweeteners could influence the growth of certain gut bacteria, according to a new laboratory study, although researchers caution that the findings do not yet show the same effects occur in people.
Scientists at the University of Cambridge examined how 39 commercially used sweeteners affected 25 species of gut bacteria grown under laboratory conditions.
Published in the journal Molecular Systems Biology, the study found that about three-quarters of the sweeteners influenced the growth of at least one bacterial species. In some cases, they slowed or stopped the growth of bacteria associated with a healthy gut.
The researchers then looked at what happened when the sweeteners were combined with substances many people consume or take regularly, including caffeine, flavourings and several medicines.
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