A new study of nearly 13,000 adults has found that individuals consuming the highest amounts of artificial sweeteners experienced a 62 percent faster decline in memory and thinking skills compared with those who consumed the least. Researchers said the accelerated cognitive decline was equivalent to approximately 1.6 additional years of brain aging. Six popular sugar substitutes were linked to the faster deterioration, according to the findings, which add to growing concerns about the long-term health effects of common artificial sweeteners widely used in food and beverages.
The study, published in a peer-reviewed journal, followed participants over an extended period and assessed cognitive function through standardized tests. While the results show a strong association between high sweetener intake and faster brain aging, the researchers cautioned that the observational design does not establish causation. They noted that other lifestyle and dietary factors could contribute to the observed decline and called for further clinical research to confirm the findings. Public health experts said the results warrant attention but should not prompt consumers to change their diets without consulting health professionals.
Independent reporting synthesized from primary wires and global correspondents.