Long Term Effects of Sucralose

Introduction:

Sucralose is an artificial sweetener that is commonly used in sugar-free products. It is marketed under the brand name Splenda and is popular among people who want to reduce their sugar intake. Sucralose is much sweeter than sugar and is considered to be calorie-free, which makes it an attractive alternative to sugar. However, there is growing concern over the long-term effects of sucralose on health. In this post, we’ll explore the potential negative effects of sucralose and provide practical tips for reducing its consumption.

What is Sucralose?

Sucralose is an artificial sweetener that is made from sugar. It was discovered in 1976 and was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1998. Sucralose is about 600 times sweeter than sugar and is used as a sugar substitute in many products, including diet soda, chewing gum, and baked goods.

Long-term effects of Sucralose:

1. Increases the risk of diabetes: Studies have shown that long-term consumption of sucralose can increase the risk of developing diabetes. A study conducted on rats found that sucralose consumption altered glucose metabolism and caused insulin resistance, which is a precursor to type 2 diabetes.
2. Alters gut microbiota: Research has shown that sucralose consumption can alter the balance of bacteria in the gut, leading to a decrease in beneficial bacteria and an increase in harmful bacteria. This can cause inflammation and damage to the intestinal lining, which can lead to digestive issues and other health problems.
3. May cause cancer: There is some evidence to suggest that long-term consumption of sucralose can increase the risk of cancer. A study conducted on mice found that sucralose consumption led to an increased incidence of leukemia and other cancers.
4. Can lead to weight gain: Although sucralose is marketed as a calorie-free sweetener, studies have shown that it can actually lead to weight gain. A study conducted on humans found that sucralose consumption led to increased hunger and food intake, which can lead to weight gain over time.

Practical tips for reducing Sucralose consumption:

1. Read labels carefully: Sucralose is a common ingredient in many processed foods, so it’s important to read labels carefully to identify products that contain it.
2. Choose natural sweeteners: There are many natural sweeteners that can be used as an alternative to sucralose, such as honey, maple syrup, and stevia.
3. Avoid diet soda: Diet soda is a common source of sucralose, so it’s best to avoid it altogether. Instead, opt for water or unsweetened tea.
4. Use fresh ingredients: Using fresh ingredients to sweeten food and drinks is a great way to reduce the need for artificial sweeteners like sucralose.
5. Limit consumption: If you do consume products that contain sucralose, it’s important to limit your consumption to reduce the risk of negative long-term effects.

Read also:

Side Effects of Sweets

 

Conclusion:

In conclusion, sucralose is a widely-used artificial sweetener that is considered safe for consumption by regulatory agencies. However, studies have shown that long-term consumption of sucralose may have some potential adverse effects on human health, such as altering gut microflora, increasing insulin response, and possibly even increasing the risk of certain cancers. It is important to remember that sucralose should not be used as a substitute for a healthy and balanced diet, and moderation is key. It is also important to note that research on sucralose is ongoing, and as new information becomes available, our understanding of the potential long-term effects of this sweetener may change. As with any food or food additive, it is important to be aware of the potential risks and benefits and make informed decisions about what we put into our bodies.

Sources:

1. Soffritti, M., Belpoggi, F., Tibaldi, E., Esposti, D. D., & Lauriola, M. (2016). Sucralose administered in feed, beginning prenatally through lifespan, induces hematopoietic neoplasias in male swiss mice. International Journal of Occupational and Environmental Health, 22(1), 7-17. doi: 10.1080/10773525.2015.1106075
2. Abou-Donia, M. B., El-Masry, E. M., Abdel-Rahman, A. A., McLendon, R. E., & Schiffman, S. S. (2008). Splenda alters gut microflora and increases intestinal p-glycoprotein and cytochrome p-450 in male rats. Journal of Toxicology and Environmental Health, Part A, 71(21), 1415-1429. doi: 10.1080/15287390802328630
3. Pepino, M. Y., Tiemann, C. D., Patterson, B. W., Wice, B. M., & Klein, S. (2013). Sucralose affects glycemic and hormonal responses to an oral glucose load. Diabetes Care, 36(9), 2530-2535. doi: 10.2337/dc12-2221
4. Swithers, S. E. (2013). Artificial sweeteners produce the counterintuitive effect of inducing metabolic derangements. Trends in Endocrinology and Metabolism, 24(9), 431-441. doi: 10.1016/j.tem.2013.05.005
5. Kuk, J. L., Brown, R. E., & Josse, A. R. (2016). Effects of sweeteners on appetite and food intake: a systematic review of the literature. International Journal of Obesity, 40(3), 381-394. doi: 10.1038/ijo.2015.177