Artificial Sweeteners and Cognitive Decline

Popular Sweeteners Linked to Cognitive Decline in Surprising Study

  • Consuming large amounts of artificial sweeteners is linked to a faster rate of cognitive decline, according to one study.
  • Researchers suspect that these sweeteners may increase inflammation in the brain, slowing memory and critical thinking, though more research is needed.
  • Experts explain whether you should cut back on artificial sweeteners.
The observational study linked six artificial sweeteners to cognitive decline, but did not control for other factors. They were:
Acesulfame-K (found in beverages, candies, baked goods, & as the sweetener Equal)
Aspartame (often found in diet drinks & dairy products)
Erythritol (used in many keto-friendly products, drinks, & as the sweetener Truvia)
Saccharin (best known as the sweetener Sweet 'N Low)
Sorbitol (often used in sweets)
Xylitol (found in gums & oral care items)

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