Artificial sweeteners are widely used as sugar substitutes, primarily to aid in weight management and diabetes control. However, their safety and long-term health impacts remain controversial. Recent studies suggest that they may be associated with an increased risk of cardiometabolic disorders and mortality.
This new study investigates this association by analyzing data from the U.S. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). The objective: to examine links between the frequency of artificial sweetener consumption and the risk of cardiometabolic disorders, as well as all-cause mortality.
Is there a link between artificial sweeteners and cardiometabolic health?
This study draws on a sample of 6,371 participants from NHANES (2003–2006). Researchers assessed the relationship between artificial sweetener consumption frequency and the risks of cardiometabolic disorders (including hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, diabetes, obesity, congestive heart failure) as well as all-cause mortality (including cardiovascular and diabetes-related deaths). Consumption frequency was categorized as "rare," "moderate," or "frequent."
To enhance the robustness of the findings, logistic regressions and Cox models were used to evaluate associations between artificial sweetener consumption and cardiometabolic risks. Additionally, Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis was applied to verify causal associations.
The study shows that frequent consumption of artificial sweeteners is significantly associated with a higher risk of cardiometabolic disorders, including hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, diabetes, obesity, congestive heart failure, and heart attacks.
Frequent consumers of artificial sweeteners also face an increased all-cause mortality risk (2.62 times higher) and a greater risk of diabetes-related mortality.
Finally, MR analysis confirmed a causal association between artificial sweetener consumption and increased risks of hypertension and type 2 diabetes in certain populations.
Artificial sweeteners: a cardiometabolic health concern?
This study highlights an association between high artificial sweetener intake and increased cardiometabolic risk, particularly in diabetic patients. Although often recommended as sugar alternatives, the long-term effects of these sweeteners raise concerns. Further research is necessary to confirm these links and explore underlying mechanisms, especially concerning the gut microbiome. For healthcare professionals, moderate consumption and close monitoring of emerging studies on this topic are advised.
