Artificial sweeteners have long been promoted as a healthier alternative to sugar, but a new study has raised questions about that belief.
According to the research, several commonly used artificial sweeteners may disrupt blood sugar balance rather than help regulate it.
Researchers say that although artificial sweeteners contain little to no calories, they may still affect the body’s metabolism and the system responsible for controlling blood sugar levels.
Professor Meng Wang and his team from the Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy at Tufts University reviewed 21 randomized clinical trials comparing people who consumed artificial sweeteners with those who drank water or used a calorie-free placebo.
The study found that individuals who consumed artificial sweeteners had relatively higher levels of fasting insulin and HbA1c. HbA1c is an important indicator of long-term blood sugar control.
According to the researchers, the findings also suggested that people who used artificial sweeteners showed reduced insulin sensitivity, although the evidence for this association was relatively weak.
Experts say the study indicates that the effects of artificial sweeteners on the human body may be more complex than previously believed, highlighting the need for further research.