Brain HealthStudy Links Higher Sugar Substitute Intake to Faster Cognitive Decline
Sugar substitutes may be linked to faster cognitive decline, according to a study tracking 12,772 Brazilian adults for approximately eight years. Participants averaged 52 years old at enrollment. Those consuming the most sweeteners averaged 191 milligrams daily, compared with 20 milligrams among the lowest consumers. The highest intake group reportedly experienced 62% faster decline in memory and thinking skills, described as equivalent to about 1.6 additional years of brain aging. Researchers examined seven sweeteners, and the article reports associations for six, with stronger associations among participants with diabetes. However, this observational study cannot establish that sweeteners caused the decline. Self-reported diet and other differences between participants could influence the findings. Consider unsweetened alternatives, but do not interpret this research as evidence that switching back to sugar protects your brain.
